Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to the comments of the Chief Executive of Sainsburys, relating to food entering Northern Ireland after 1st January 2021, if he will provide assurances to consumers in Northern Ireland that the supply of goods and consumer choice in Northern Ireland will not be reduced after 1st January 2021.

The UK and the EU have committed to an intensified process of engagement to resolve all outstanding issues with the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, which includes securing the flexibilities we need for trade from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. This is particularly important for supermarkets, where we have been clear specific solutions are required.

We will continue to work closely with the Northern Ireland Executive as discussions continue with the EU through the Joint Committee process.