Question to the Department for Exiting the European Union :

To ask the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, with reference to the Prime Minister's proposed EU exit deal, when his Department last met with representatives of Northern Irish industry to discuss the effect on that industry of the imposition of a North-South and an East-West border.

The department has engaged extensively with representatives of businesses, industry groups and trade unions from Northern Ireland. This includes through the Government’s Alternative Arrangements Business Advisory Group. Ministers are continuing to engage with representatives from all sectors of the Northern Ireland economy.

The Government's revised deal provides a new and unique solution for Northern Ireland – they will continue to be part of the UK Customs Union, but with access to EU markets without a hard border. The Government has made clear commitments to ensure unfettered access for Northern Ireland businesses to the whole UK internal market.