Oral Answers to Questions

Alistair Carmichael Excerpts

Wednesday 5th February 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Walker]

It is absolutely clear that the process of goods moving from Northern Ireland to Great Britain is within the control of the UK Government. We have made clear commitments with regard to ensuring unfettered access to the whole of the UK internal market.

[Mr Alistair Carmichael (Orkney and Shetland) (LD)]

10. What assessment he has made of the effect of the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020 on the Union.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr Robin Walker)]

The deal implemented in domestic law through the European Union (Withdrawal Agreement) Act 2020 means that we have left the EU as one United Kingdom. The protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland guarantees Northern Ireland’s integral place in the UK. This Government will never be neutral in expressing our support for the Union and our steadfast belief that Northern Ireland’s best interests are served within a strong United Kingdom.

[Mr Carmichael]

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster told us yesterday that we do not need a deal with the European Union. If he is right, what will that mean for the future of Northern Ireland in the Union?