Windsor Framework (Retail Movement Scheme: Plant Health) (Amendment) Regulations 2026

Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick Excerpts

Wednesday 2nd September 2026 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Ritchie of Downpatrick (Lab)]

My Lords, we have had several debates over the last couple of years in relation to the Windsor Framework. They have all originated from those who are basically opposed to the Windsor Framework, which is a direct consequence of Brexit—for which they voted. That has caused economic and political instability in Northern Ireland. Instead, as my noble friend Lady Chapman said, we need not only a pragmatic approach but a collaborative one to be able to avail ourselves of the opportunities presented by access to both the UK internal market and the EU single market, which bring benefit and economic opportunity to all producers in Northern Ireland.

Let us cast our minds back: what is the purpose of the Windsor Framework? It is to fix trade and political problems caused by the post-Brexit Northern Ireland protocol, by making it easier to move goods between Britain and Northern Ireland. Yes, there are challenges, but the report by the noble Lord, Lord Murphy, which was accepted by the previous Secretary of State, indicated that a one-stop shop would be established. Can my noble friend the Minister provide an update on the one-stop shop, the SPS agreement and the UK-EU reset? Those are vital vehicles to bring us to a better place.