Oral Answers to Questions

Sammy Wilson Excerpts

Tuesday 10th February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Ed Miliband]

I congratulate Sunnyside academy. This Government and GB Energy are delivering a policy opposed by the Conservative party.

[Sammy Wilson (East Antrim) (DUP)]

Last week the Government pushed through the imposition of the emissions trading scheme on domestic shipping. That will have a huge impact on Northern Ireland, because so many goods are brought into Northern Ireland from GB, or sent there, on ferries. What assessment has the Minister made of the impact this will have on consumer prices and manufacturing costs in Northern Ireland? Does he recognise that Northern Ireland will face heavy costs because of this net zero policy?

[Chris McDonald]

The right hon. Member and I debated this at length in the Delegated Legislation Committee last week. On the impact of this measure on Northern Ireland, I am sure he will be pleased to welcome the fact that we are providing a 50% reduction on the carbon tax associated with the extension to domestic maritime for journeys to Northern Ireland, to ensure that they are not disadvantaged when compared with journeys to the Republic of Ireland.