Preparations for Leaving the EU Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Preparations for Leaving the EU

Maria Caulfield Excerpts
Tuesday 8th October 2019

(4 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Michael Gove Portrait Michael Gove
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No, I do not take that view. The hon. Gentleman is an old friend, and I therefore take his comments in good part, but no: I admire the Prime Minister, and I know that what he is trying to do is what the Government are trying to do, which is to honour the votes of his constituents so that we can leave the EU.

Maria Caulfield Portrait Maria Caulfield (Lewes) (Con)
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Three million tonnes of the Republic of Ireland’s goods travel to and from the EU via the UK land bridge, and without a deal they will be liable for customs checks, tariffs and quotas. Does the Minister agree that, more than those of any other country, the best interests of the Republic will be served if the UK leaves the EU with a deal?

Michael Gove Portrait Michael Gove
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My hon. Friend and I both want to make sure that the Republic of Ireland is in the strongest possible position after we leave the European Union, and the best thing for the UK, for the Republic of Ireland and for the many interests that we share across these islands is to secure a deal.