Oral Answers to Questions

Brendan Clarke-Smith Excerpts

Wednesday 24th June 2020 Commons Chamber

[Mr Walker]

I share the right hon. Gentleman’s respect for the former Secretary of State, but there is no need for Northern Ireland businesses to move elsewhere to trade with the UK. The Government will provide unfettered access for Northern Ireland businesses to the UK market. Working together with the Executive, we can provide strong conditions for recovery that will make Northern Ireland an excellent place to invest.

[Brendan Clarke-Smith (Bassetlaw) (Con)]

What recent assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations on the UK's future relationship with the EU in relation to Northern Ireland.

[Joy Morrissey (Beaconsfield) (Con)]

What recent assessment he has made of the progress of negotiations on the UK's future relationship with the EU in relation to Northern Ireland.

[Brendan Clarke-Smith]

I thank the Secretary of State for that answer. Does he agree that, with business facing the hardest level of uncertainty in our lifetime because of coronavirus, it would be an enormous mistake to do as many Opposition Members are suggesting and extend the transition, the talks and all the unwanted uncertainty, delaying the start of our new relationship indefinitely?

[Brandon Lewis]

My hon. Friend is quite right. First, extending the transition period would bind us into future EU laws, without us having any say, yet we could still have to foot the bill. Secondly, extending the transition period would simply prolong the negotiations and increase uncertainty for business. That is why we will not extend the transition period. This country needs to be able to design our own rules in our own best interests, and that is what we will do.