European Council

Debate between Baroness Evans of Bowes Park and Baroness McIntosh of Pickering

Tuesday 14th March 2017 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

The Scottish Government’s proposals have been considered in detail, including through the JMC process. In the last month, there have been a series of technical meetings on the content of the proposals. Officials in the Scottish Government have met UK specialists in trade, customs, the single market, law, devolution, and goods and services, so close working is going on.

[Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Con)]

Does my noble friend agree that we currently have access to the widest free trade area through our membership of the European Union? Will she agree that it is extremely important to have transitional arrangements in place? If we lose access through the World Trade Organization, does she accept that, overnight, we will lose access to the free trade agreements negotiated by the EU? Will she use her good offices to ensure that we continue to have free trade access that we currently enjoy under transitional arrangements, until such time as a permanent agreement is agreed?

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

We want to have reached an agreement about our future partnership by the time the two-year Article 50 process has been concluded. From that point onwards, we expect a phased process of implementation, in which both Britain and the EU institutions and member states prepare for the new arrangements that will exist between us.

Northern Powerhouse: Early Years Attainment

Debate between Baroness Evans of Bowes Park and Baroness McIntosh of Pickering

Tuesday 22nd December 2015 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

My understanding is that that is still being considered in the Department for Education. However, as I said, we are looking very closely at where we can make the most difference to young people’s lives. Of course, whatever takes over from the early years foundation stage, we will ensure that it continues to be a focus.

[Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Con)]

My Lords, I refer to my entry in the register. I congratulate the Government on their work so far in creating the northern powerhouse. Will the Minister ensure that rural communities are not left behind and that, in particular, the plight of rural schools and rural transport is not lost sight of?

[Baroness Evans of Bowes Park]

I can certainly offer my noble friend that reassurance. Rural communities remain at the forefront of the Government’s mind.