Oral Answers to Questions

Charlie Elphicke Excerpts

Thursday 9th March 2017 Commons Chamber

[Mr Jones]

I think it is very much in our mutual interests, and I am sure that once the negotiations begin we will move towards a sensible and satisfactory mutual conclusion.

[Charlie Elphicke (Dover) (Con)]

Does the Minister agree that, although we hope for the best, the chaotic patchwork of EU institutions and election cycles may mean that a deal is not done in two years? If that is the case, will he consider the case for investing in the roads to the channel ports and, indeed, in frictionless and modern borders, to ensure that we have a seamless flow of trade in future?

[Mr Jones]

I agree with my hon. Friend about frictionless agreements. We have a huge advantage in that Britain is, of course, currently a member of the European Union, so our standards and regulations are in complete alignment. I was heartened to see that Michel Barnier, the chief negotiator for the European Union, has recognised that a deal is doable in two years.