Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what progress they have made in their negotiations with the European Commission on the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland; what consultations they are holding with (1) the Northern Ireland political parties, (2) representatives of the Northern Ireland business community, in relation to the progress of these talks; and when they expect the negotiations to conclude.

The tenth meeting of the Ireland and Northern Ireland Specialised Committee took place earlier this week. We made clear our ongoing determination to address all outstanding issues with the Northern Ireland Protocol, and to find durable solutions as soon as possible for the benefit of people and businesses in Northern Ireland.

We are not setting deadlines but there are still significant gaps and the need for solutions is urgent.

In addition to talks there is also regular ongoing Ministerial and official engagement with political parties, business groups, civil society and other stakeholders in Northern Ireland.