Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the European Union's conduct in recent discussions relating to trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

The EU’s attempt to activate Article 16 of the Protocol in late January created a new situation, with regard to the application of the Protocol. Nevertheless, there have been constructive discussions between us and the EU. These discussions have begun to clarify outstanding issues and have established some positive momentum. Nonetheless, a number of difficult issues remain. As set out following my meeting with Vice President Šefčovič on 15 April, contacts will be intensified at all levels through the structures provided by the Withdrawal Agreement.