European Union (Withdrawal Arrangements) Bill
Debate between Alex McIntyre and Peter DowdFriday 6th December 2024
(2 weeks, 2 days ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate European Union (Withdrawal Arrangements) Bill 2024-26 View all European Union (Withdrawal Arrangements) Bill 2024-26 Debates Read Hansard Text Read Debate Ministerial Extracts
Peter Dowd
As my hon. Friend the Member for Putney (Fleur Anderson) says from a sedentary position, the framework strengthens the Union. That is exactly the point that I would have made. I know that some people do not accept that, but I believe that it strengthens the Union. Like a curate’s egg, any treaty will have good and bad parts for both sides. We would not need treaties or agreements if we all agreed about everything. The reality is that dissonance comes with the territory.
Alex McIntyre
Members on the Opposition Benches have talked a lot about cross-community support. The hon. and learned Member for North Antrim (Jim Allister) mentioned a lack of consultation. Is my hon. Friend aware of whether there has been any cross-community consultation on the Bill?