Oral Answers to Questions

Stephen Gethins Excerpts

Wednesday 1st February 2017 Commons Chamber

[Kris Hopkins]

We will do everything we can to ensure that there is a good economic link between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The common economic connector is an important part of that and we will work together to resolve that issue.

[Stephen Gethins (North East Fife) (SNP)]

4. What steps he is taking to ensure that the Northern Ireland Assembly will be consulted before the triggering of article 50.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (James Brokenshire)]

We are determined that Northern Ireland’s voice will be heard. All the devolved Administrations will be fully engaged in the process of preparing to leave the European Union. We will continue to consult the devolved Administrations, including through the Joint Ministerial Committee (EU Negotiations).

[Stephen Gethins]

Membership of the single market is obviously critical to Northern Ireland. Given the commitment to the common travel area, will the Minister tell us what blockages, apart from political ones, remain to Scotland and Northern Ireland remaining part of the single market?

[James Brokenshire]

The Prime Minister was robust in her stance on wanting the freest and best possible trading arrangements with the European Union to allow UK companies to operate with and trade in the EU. I hope that the hon. Gentleman supports that.