Oral Answers to Questions

Scott Benton Excerpts

Wednesday 8th December 2021 Commons Chamber

[Conor Burns]

I am happy to confirm to the hon. Lady that the provisions of article 2 are unconnected to any triggering of article 16. We are absolutely committed to seeing no diminution of human rights in Northern Ireland.

[Scott Benton (Blackpool South) (Con)]

9. What steps his Department is taking to support businesses in Great Britain which export to Northern Ireland.

[The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office (Conor Burns)]

International trade is vital to boosting prosperity for this country, and trade within the United Kingdom is essential for our sense of connectivity and belonging, which is a priority for this Government.

[Scott Benton]

I thank the Minister for his answer and for the steps he is taking to support trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. [Interruption.]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. We should know better. When a Member is asking a question, you should not be walking in front of him. That is just not fair.

[Scott Benton]

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

Despite these measures, east-west trade remains disrupted because of the EU’s application of elements within the protocol. I wholeheartedly support the Minister’s efforts to remedy the situation, but if those efforts are unsuccessful, will he confirm that all measures, including invoking article 16, remain on the table?

[Conor Burns]

The Government have been absolutely clear that we want to find a sustainable and durable solution to the problems created by the protocol. Under the strong leadership of my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and Lord Frost’s unrivalled grasp of the protocol, we are determined to reach that solution.