Stephen Farry Portrait

Stephen Farry

Alliance - North Down

First elected: 12th December 2019


Northern Ireland (Ministers, Elections and Petitions of Concern) Bill
28th Jun 2021 - 6th Jul 2021


Division Voting information

During the current Parliament, Stephen Farry has voted in 690 divisions, and never against the majority of their Party.
View All Stephen Farry Division Votes

Debates during the 2019 Parliament

Speeches made during Parliamentary debates are recorded in Hansard. For ease of browsing we have grouped debates into individual, departmental and legislative categories.

Sparring Partners
Brandon Lewis (Conservative)
(41 debate interactions)
Boris Johnson (Conservative)
(39 debate interactions)
Michael Gove (Conservative)
Minister for Intergovernmental Relations
(33 debate interactions)
View All Sparring Partners
Department Debates
Northern Ireland Office
(152 debate contributions)
Cabinet Office
(112 debate contributions)
HM Treasury
(31 debate contributions)
View All Department Debates
View all Stephen Farry's debates

North Down Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Petition Debates Contributed

Ensure any ban fully includes trans people and all forms of conversion therapy.


Latest EDMs signed by Stephen Farry

25th March 2024
Stephen Farry signed this EDM as a sponsor on Tuesday 26th March 2024

250th anniversary of Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church

Tabled by: Jim Shannon (Democratic Unionist Party - Strangford)
That this House celebrates the 250th Anniversary of Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church, built in 1773; notes this place of worship is made up of people from all backgrounds and walks of life with a strong faith in Christ and a desire to share God's message of hope and love; …
3 signatures
(Most recent: 26 Mar 2024)
Signatures by party:
Democratic Unionist Party: 1
Alliance: 1
Scottish National Party: 1
25th March 2024
Stephen Farry signed this EDM as a sponsor on Tuesday 26th March 2024

Stage two report of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman on women's state pension age

Tabled by: Patricia Gibson (Scottish National Party - North Ayrshire and Arran)
That this House welcomes the findings of the UK Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) which vindicates women born in the 1950s who were severely impacted when their state pension age was raised with little or no notice; notes that the Ombudsman's conclusions that the Government needs to act swiftly …
12 signatures
(Most recent: 26 Mar 2024)
Signatures by party:
Scottish National Party: 7
Plaid Cymru: 3
Alliance: 1
Democratic Unionist Party: 1
View All Stephen Farry's signed Early Day Motions

Commons initiatives

These initiatives were driven by Stephen Farry, and are more likely to reflect personal policy preferences.

MPs who are act as Ministers or Shadow Ministers are generally restricted from performing Commons initiatives other than Urgent Questions.



Latest 50 Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department
5 Other Department Questions
1st Sep 2023
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, if she will make an assessment of the potential merits of bringing forward legislative proposals to establish rights for disabled people online similar to those in the Equality Act 2010.

The Equality Act 2010 already requires the providers of online services to make reasonable adjustments for their disabled customers - for example those with visual impairments. This is an anticipatory duty, meaning service providers should expect a proportion of their customers to need adjustments and put appropriate systems in place, ready for when they are needed.

A failure to make such adjustments is unlawful disability discrimination under the 2010 Act. Before considering any legal action, a disabled person who may have been discriminated against because of a disability may contact The Equality Advisory and Support Service (EASS), the government helpline established to provide free bespoke advice and in-depth support to individuals with discrimination concerns.

The EASS can be contacted via their website - http://www.equalityadvisoryservice.com/, by telephone on 0808 8000082 or text phone on 0808 8000084.

The EASS has the ability to intervene on an individual’s behalf with a service provider to help resolve an issue. The EASS can also advise people who wish to take their complaint further on their options.

Stuart Andrew
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
14th Apr 2023
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, whether the Government plans to consult with victims and survivors of abuse as part of the pre-legislative scrutiny for the proposed ban on sexual orientation and gender identity conversion practices.

Equality Hub Ministers and officials have engaged with a wide range of stakeholders on the subject of conversion practices, including victims and survivors. This has helped to inform our approach to banning conversion practices, which will be published in a draft Bill for pre-legislative scrutiny by joint committee in this parliamentary session. Pre-legislative scrutiny will allow for in-depth analysis and challenge to test the policy and drafting. It will also give stakeholders and parliamentarians a further opportunity to input their experience and expertise and build stronger consensus ahead of introducing the legislation in Parliament.

Stuart Andrew
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
9th Nov 2022
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, what discussions she has had with (a) Ministers and (b) officials in Northern Ireland on legislation to ban LGBTQ+ conversion therapy; and whether she is taking steps to align such legislation for (i) England and Wales and (ii) Northern Ireland.

The Government has been liaising with territorial offices and the devolved administrations including the Scottish Government, Welsh Government and the Northern Ireland Executive on this important issue.

Officials will continue to work with their counterparts across the devolved administrations to discuss the UK Government’s approach to protecting everyone in England and Wales from conversion therapy practices.

Stuart Andrew
Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Department for Culture, Media and Sport)
26th May 2021
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, pursuant to her oral contribution at the Women and Equalities Committee on 25 May 2021 on the Role of the Government Equalities Office, where she stated that we’re also working hard with business to ensure there is support for LGBT people in business, particularly in small businesses, if she will publish a list of those businesses with whom she and officials of the Government Equalities Office have met.

The Government Equalities Office has engaged widely with employers across the UK to understand the experiences of LGBT employees in different sectors, meeting representatives from over 150 businesses during 2019/20 to share experiences on making workplaces genuinely LGBT-inclusive.

In March 2021, for example, the Minister for Women and Equalities met with a number of self-employed and SME businesses to discuss their personal experiences, and thoughts on best practice for promoting LGBT equality at work.

Kemi Badenoch
President of the Board of Trade
28th Sep 2020
To ask the Minister for Women and Equalities, pursuant to her oral contribution of 24 September 2020, Official Report, column 1137, on the Gender Recognition Act Consultation, where she stated that We have met 140 representative organisations, including LGBT and women’s organisations, if she will publish a list of those organisations with whom she and the Government Equalities Office met to discuss reform of the Gender Recognition Act 2004.

During the Gender Recognition Act consultation process, the Government met with approximately 140 organisations. The list, which was previously published via a Freedom of Information request in 2019, is provided as an annex to this answer.

Kemi Badenoch
President of the Board of Trade
24th Feb 2023
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, for what reason complaints about Government departments and other public organisations must be referred to the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman by a Member of Parliament.

The statutory requirement for complaints to be made to a Member of the House of Commons is longstanding and is consistent with the Ombudsman’s accountability to Parliament.

8th Jul 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will publish the Government’s response to the statement from the EU Commission dated 30 June 2021 entitled EU-UK relations: solutions found to help implementation of the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The Government has been clear that it welcomes Vice President Sefcovic’s indications that the EU is looking at further solutions.

However, the issues raised are only a smaller subset of a much larger set of problems created by the way the Protocol is being implemented – we need engagement on these fundamental barriers that we have identified during discussions.

In addition, where solutions were flagged, discussions are generally not advanced enough to determine whether they sufficiently address even the narrow issues with which they are concerned. We would need to see the full details of the proposals and discuss further to ensure any of these will work in practice.

We are considering our next steps and discussing with all those with an interest. We will set out our approach to Parliament in a considered way before the summer recess.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
14th Jun 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the Answer of 23 March 2021 to Question 171772 on UK Trade with EU: Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with (a) the European Commission and (b) individual EU member states on instances in which parcels or packets coming directly from Northern Ireland into the EU have been incorrectly required to have CN22 customers labels.

The Government has worked with parcel operators to ensure processes are set up such that importing EU countries should be clear that goods from Northern Ireland should not face customs processes. Where instances of non-compliance with the Protocol have been identified, we have been raising these issues with the Commission as part of our wider work to address outstanding issues with the Protocol, in order to minimise disruption to everyday lives in Northern Ireland.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
27th May 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will set out the proposed membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group in relation to the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Joint Consultative Working Group (JCWG) is an official level group and Article 15(2) of the Northern Ireland Protocol establishes that the JCWG shall be composed of representatives of the United Kingdom and the European Union.

The Group’s rules of procedure set out that, where appropriate and by decision of the co-chairs, experts or other persons who are not members of delegations may be invited to attend meetings of the JCWG in order to provide information on a particular subject. This has not been necessary so far.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
27th May 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what plans the Government has to include representation from trade unions on the Joint Consultative Working Group in respect of the implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Joint Consultative Working Group (JCWG) is an official level group and Article 15(2) of the Northern Ireland Protocol establishes that the JCWG shall be composed of representatives of the United Kingdom and the European Union.

The Group’s rules of procedure set out that, where appropriate and by decision of the co-chairs, experts or other persons who are not members of delegations may be invited to attend meetings of the JCWG in order to provide information on a particular subject. This has not been necessary so far.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
18th Mar 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the EU27 states are aware that there is no requirement for CN22 customers labels on parcels or packets being directly sent from Northern Ireland.

We have set out through clear guidance the temporary arrangements that apply for movements between Great Britain and Northern Ireland. It is for the European Union to ensure that it and Member States are upholding their obligations in full, including with regard to the fact that movements from Northern Ireland into the EU should not be subject to any controls that do not otherwise apply to movements within the EU.

We also engage regularly with operators regarding these arrangements, during which we have underlined the fact that parcel movements from Northern Ireland directly to the EU should be treated on the same basis as movements within the EU. However it is for the European Union to ensure that the rights of Northern Ireland operators are given full effect in EU Member States. We have and will continue to raise any issues in that regard with the Commission.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
22nd Feb 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, if he will publish the attendance of the Joint Consultative Working Group on 29 January 2021; and how membership of that group was determined.

Article 15(2) of the Northern Ireland Protocol establishes that the Joint Consultative Working Group shall be composed of representatives of the United Kingdom and the European Union. The Government has committed to including representatives of the Northern Ireland Executive as part of the UK delegation to meetings. The JCWG briefly convened for a very short period on 29 January to adopt the Rules of Procedure. This was not a full meeting so was attended by limited delegations of only three officials from each side.

The Rules of Procedure adopted by that Working Group were those included as an Annex to the EU’s Council Decision 2020/1599 adopted on 23 October 2020; and no amendments were made.

The Working Group will continue to meet at dates decided by the co-chairs.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
1st Feb 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to ensure that recruitment to public service and non-public service posts are open to (a) people from Northern Ireland with an Irish identity and (b) EU/EEA nationals and others with indefinite right to remain.

The UK Government is working to increase the interchange and rotation of officials between posts within the Civil Service, including those working for the UK Government, agencies and public bodies, and the devolved administrations, as well as with the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

Northern Ireland civil servants who were originally appointed on merit through fair and open competition may freely transfer to posts in UK Government Departments. Appointments to the Northern Ireland Civil Service are regulated by the Northern Ireland Civil Service Commissioners.

With regards to working in the Civil Service, as set out previously, there is no change to the eligibility requirements for individuals who are Irish nationals following the UK’s exit from the EU, and they are eligible for all non-reserved posts. The Government has committed to maintaining the rights and opportunities of those with status under the EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for employment in non-reserved posts within the Civil Service.

Julia Lopez
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
1st Feb 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the implications for equality of not allowing transfers from the Northern Ireland civil service to the UK civil service.

The UK Government is working to increase the interchange and rotation of officials between posts within the Civil Service, including those working for the UK Government, agencies and public bodies, and the devolved administrations, as well as with the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

Northern Ireland civil servants who were originally appointed on merit through fair and open competition may freely transfer to posts in UK Government Departments. Appointments to the Northern Ireland Civil Service are regulated by the Northern Ireland Civil Service Commissioners.

With regards to working in the Civil Service, as set out previously, there is no change to the eligibility requirements for individuals who are Irish nationals following the UK’s exit from the EU, and they are eligible for all non-reserved posts. The Government has committed to maintaining the rights and opportunities of those with status under the EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for employment in non-reserved posts within the Civil Service.

Julia Lopez
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
1st Feb 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to ensure that employees can transfer from the UK civil service to the Northern Ireland civil service.

The UK Government is working to increase the interchange and rotation of officials between posts within the Civil Service, including those working for the UK Government, agencies and public bodies, and the devolved administrations, as well as with the Northern Ireland Civil Service.

Northern Ireland civil servants who were originally appointed on merit through fair and open competition may freely transfer to posts in UK Government Departments. Appointments to the Northern Ireland Civil Service are regulated by the Northern Ireland Civil Service Commissioners.

With regards to working in the Civil Service, as set out previously, there is no change to the eligibility requirements for individuals who are Irish nationals following the UK’s exit from the EU, and they are eligible for all non-reserved posts. The Government has committed to maintaining the rights and opportunities of those with status under the EU Settlement Scheme to be eligible for employment in non-reserved posts within the Civil Service.

Julia Lopez
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
25th Jan 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps the Government is taking to assist Northern Ireland based companies, experiencing supply chain interruption from suppliers in Great Britain, to identify alternative suppliers in the EU.

Further to the answers given by my Right Honourable Friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster in the House today, the Government has no such policy.

For those moving goods into Northern Ireland from the rest of the UK, there is a substantial package of support available including the free to use Trader Support Service and the Movement Assistance Scheme, where SPS certification is required.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
6th Jan 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of implementing a bespoke mechanism to facilitate the timely passage of guide dog puppies from Great Britain to Northern Ireland with an agreed derogation from the Northern Ireland Protocol.

I refer the hon. Member to the response by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to the urgent question on 2 February 2021, and the letter by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to the European Commission Vice-President. Further steps are necessary to address regulatory barriers and provide time for a light-touch long-term approach to be codified.

The Government is engaging with the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to explore means to streamline pet travel between the UK and Ireland, recognising the high standards of animal health that the UK and Ireland share.

In the meantime, DAERA have confirmed that there will be no routine compliance checks on pets/assistance dogs entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain until 1 July 2021. NI-based pets/assistance dogs returning to Northern Ireland from Great Britain can continue to use an NI-issued EU Pet Passport to re-enter Northern Ireland, and will not need an animal health certificate. Further guidance is set out here: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
6th Jan 2021
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps the Government is taking to ensure the continued flow of parcels and other deliveries from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in light of the Northern Ireland Protocol.

I refer the hon. Member to the response by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to the urgent question on 2 February 2021, and the letter by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster to the European Commission Vice-President. Further steps are necessary to address regulatory barriers and provide time for a light-touch long-term approach to be codified.

The Government is engaging with the Northern Ireland Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and Ireland’s Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) to explore means to streamline pet travel between the UK and Ireland, recognising the high standards of animal health that the UK and Ireland share.

In the meantime, DAERA have confirmed that there will be no routine compliance checks on pets/assistance dogs entering Northern Ireland from Great Britain until 1 July 2021. NI-based pets/assistance dogs returning to Northern Ireland from Great Britain can continue to use an NI-issued EU Pet Passport to re-enter Northern Ireland, and will not need an animal health certificate. Further guidance is set out here: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
14th Dec 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the Draft unilateral declarations by the European Union and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee on human and veterinary medicines cover medical devices.

The Unilateral Declaration on Medicines (available on gov.uk) allows for the phased implementation in Northern Ireland of relevant medicines regulation, and in particular the Falsified Medicines Directive. Medical devices are not subject to the Falsified Medicines Directive and are not in scope of the declaration. Businesses and authorities moving medical devices can make use of the Trade Support Service and the UK Trader Scheme. Full guidance on the regulatory requirements for medical devices are set out on gov.uk. Medical devices will be able to be moved smoothly between Great Britain and Northern Ireland from 1 January 2021.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
7th Dec 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to ensure UK access to warnings from the EU Safety Gate site with respect to goods placed on the market in (a) Northern Ireland and (b) Great Britain.

Alerts under the EU Safety Gate system are publicly available, the UK will continue to monitor and assess relevant public notifications.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
17th Nov 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the agreement reached at the fourth meeting of the Specialised Committee on the Northern Ireland Protocol on medicines covers all medicines entering Great Britain that may subsequently transit to Northern Ireland or all medicines entering the UK.

The UK and EU agreed, at the Ireland/Northern Ireland Specialised Committee on 5 November, to a pragmatic approach to implementing medicines regulations which ensures no disruption to the flow of medicines to Northern Ireland. This includes a one year time-limited approach to the application of the regulatory requirements for imports from other parts of the United Kingdom into Northern Ireland and the ‘safety feature’ elements of the Falsified Medicines Directive. Further guidance will be published shortly setting out the arrangements in detail.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
16th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what recent assessment he has made of the potential merits of commissioning a memorial to remember the victims of the Transatlantic slave trade and slavery.

May I apologise for the delay in answering this question. The UK deplores the human suffering caused by slavery and the slave trade. They are among the most dishonourable and abhorrent chapters in the history of humanity.

Public and private organisations are able to propose, fund, develop and deliver memorials marking incidents and historical moments.

Julia Lopez
Minister of State (Department for Science, Innovation and Technology)
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the planned timescale is for a system of rebates to be (a) designed and (b) implemented for goods that remain in Northern Ireland from Great Britain that do not enter the Republic of Ireland.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to enable the Trader Support Service to support businesses moving goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland via the Holyhead to Dublin route.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the labelling requirements will be for businesses that move goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what progress has been made on ensuring the continued supply of medicines from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in the event that a UK-EU mutual recognition agreement is not reached before the end of the transition period.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the potential merits are of an Australia-style future relationship with the EU.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps he is taking to facilitate inward processing relief for goods at risk of moving into the EU on Great Britain to Northern Ireland trade routes.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
15th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, pursuant to the Answer of 14 October 2020 to Question 99785, how the (a) membership and (b) rules of procedure will be determined for the Joint Consultative Working Group in relation to the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
14th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what steps are being taken to accommodate intermediate processing of goods in Northern Ireland without those goods being deemed at risk.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
12th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, when the Border Operating Model for the Great Britain and Northern Ireland interface be released.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
12th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what contingency plans the Government is making to manage trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland in the event that a trade deal is not agreed with the EU by 31 December 2020.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
12th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, what checks will be in place to ensure that only goods from Northern Ireland receive unfettered access to the UK internal market.

Further to the statement by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 19 October, the approach outlined in the Command Paper in May, and the guidance published on 7 August regarding the operation of the Northern Ireland protocol, the UK Government has been unequivocal in its commitment to delivering unfettered access for Northern Ireland goods to the rest of the UK market. This is a clear commitment of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the UK will guarantee it in legislation before the end of the year.

The Definition of Qualifying Northern Ireland Goods (EU Exit) Regulations 2020 sets out the goods that will benefit from unfettered access in the first instance. This initial approach will be replaced by a longer-lasting regime during 2021 that will be developed alongside Northern Ireland businesses, and the Northern Ireland Executive. Further details will be set out in due course but our approach will ensure that, at all stages, Northern Ireland businesses will continue to enjoy unfettered access to the whole of the UK market from 1 January 2021.

The Protocol applies whether or not the UK and EU reach agreement on a free trade agreement.

The Government has no plans to publish a Border Operating Model for goods' movement between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the simple reason that - as the Withdrawal Agreement makes clear - there is no border within the UK, and the UK as a whole will be leaving the EU's customs territory at the end of the transition period. The Government has however committed to publishing further detailed information and guidance as soon as possible when relevant details are resolved, including where matters depend on discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee. This is the case on the question of goods 'at risk', as well as further detail on labelling requirements for agrifood goods.

Further to Article 15 (2) of the Protocol and my answer to PQ 99785, the membership of the Joint Consultative Working Group will be composed of representatives of the UK, including the Northern Ireland Executive, and the EU. The Group will meet shortly.

Regarding the supply of medicines, discussions in the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee are ongoing.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
6th Oct 2020
To ask the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for the Cabinet Office, for what reason meetings of the Joint Consultative Working Group in relation to the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol have not taken place.

The Joint Consultative Working Group, established under Article 15 of the Northern Ireland Protocol, will meet once the Rules of Procedure have been agreed.

Once agreed, we will arrange a date for the first meeting.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
7th Jul 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the UK Government’s response to each of the proposed amendments to the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol made by the European Commission on 12 June 2020.

The Government is not seeking to renegotiate the Protocol, which depends on the consent of the elected representatives of the people of Northern Ireland. The Protocol must be implemented in a way that upholds the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement and respects the unique circumstances of Northern Ireland.

In terms of the proposed amendments, we will provide a fuller response once further discussions have taken place.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
19th Jun 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what the date is of the next scheduled meeting of the Specialised Committee on the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster updated the House on the second meeting of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee in a Written Statement of 15 June (HCWS291).

Further to that update, the specialised committee will meet in the coming weeks. As with the Specialised Committee, the Working Group will be co-chaired by the UK and EU and made up of officials from both sides.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
19th Jun 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, when the first meeting of the Joint Consultative Working Group on the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol will take place; and who will be invited to attend that meeting.

The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster updated the House on the second meeting of the UK-EU Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee in a Written Statement of 15 June (HCWS291).

Further to that update, the specialised committee will meet in the coming weeks. As with the Specialised Committee, the Working Group will be co-chaired by the UK and EU and made up of officials from both sides.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
3rd Jun 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, to whom did Dominic Cummings report to in his role as Special Adviser during the period when the Prime Minister was incapacitated with covid-19.

The Prime Minister was still in office; special advisers stayed in post, and remained accountable to their appointing Minister.

4th May 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what assessment he has made of the implications for the (a) ministerial, (b) special adviser and (c) civil service (i) codes and (ii) operational practice of the final report and recommendations of the Renewable Heat Initiative inquiry in Northern Ireland.

The recommendations of the Renewable Heat Initiative inquiry were aimed principally at the devolved administration in Northern Ireland, which operates its own Codes. The Government maintains awareness of relevant lessons learned in the devolved administrations, including from the inquiry, and keeps under review the Codes and operational practices that apply within the UK Government.

28th Apr 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, which (a) members of the UK delegation and (b) other participants excluding civil servants were present at (i) the first meeting and (ii) any subsequent meetings of the Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee.

The first Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee meeting was co-chaired by the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, Rt Hon Michael Gove MP. I accompanied him, as alternate co-chair. The meeting was attended by a small UK delegation, which included two ministers from the Northern Ireland Executive.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
27th Apr 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, who the proposed participants are who are not civil servants for the meeting of the Specialised Committee on the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol scheduled for 30 April 2020.

As set out in the New Decade, New Approach deal, the Government will ensure that representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive are invited to be part of the UK delegation in any meetings of the UK-EU Specialised or Joint Committees discussing Northern Ireland specific matters which are also being attended by the Irish Government as part of the European Union’s delegation. This applied to the meeting on the 30 April 2020.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
19th Mar 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how many civil servants are working on the (a) negotiations for and (b) planning of the future relationship with the EU, broken by down (a) department and (b) grade.

The Task Force Europe team in No 10 consists of 48 civil servants (as at 20 March) across all civil service grades. The Unit works closely with colleagues from across Whitehall on negotiations on our future relationship with the EU.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
3rd Mar 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to his oral contribution of 27 February 2020, Official Report, column 484, what his definition is of appropriately implemented in relation to the Northern Ireland/Ireland Protocol.

I refer the Hon. Member to the oral statement made by my Rt Hon friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 27 February 2020 (Official Record, Vol.672 Col.467-470)

The Government will ensure that representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive are invited to be part of the UK delegation in meetings of the UK-EU Specialised or Joint Committees discussing Northern Ireland specific matters which are also being attended by the Irish Government as part of the European Union’s delegation.

My Rt. Hon. Friend the Prime Minister has been clear in his statement given on 19 October 2019 (Official Record, Vol. 666, Col. 570-572) that Northern Ireland remains part of the UK customs territory.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
2nd Mar 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, with reference to the document entitled Future relationship with the European Union, published February 2020, what additional checks across the Irish Sea arising from the Northern Ireland/Ireland Protocol will be required.

I refer the Hon. Member to the oral statement made by my Rt Hon friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 27 February 2020 (Official Record, Vol.672 Col.467-470)

The Government will ensure that representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive are invited to be part of the UK delegation in meetings of the UK-EU Specialised or Joint Committees discussing Northern Ireland specific matters which are also being attended by the Irish Government as part of the European Union’s delegation.

My Rt. Hon. Friend the Prime Minister has been clear in his statement given on 19 October 2019 (Official Record, Vol. 666, Col. 570-572) that Northern Ireland remains part of the UK customs territory.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
2nd Mar 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what progress the Government has made on preparations for the implementation of the Northern Ireland/Ireland Protocol.

I refer the Hon. Member to the oral statement made by my Rt Hon friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 27 February 2020 (Official Record, Vol.672 Col.467-470)

The Government will ensure that representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive are invited to be part of the UK delegation in meetings of the UK-EU Specialised or Joint Committees discussing Northern Ireland specific matters which are also being attended by the Irish Government as part of the European Union’s delegation.

My Rt. Hon. Friend the Prime Minister has been clear in his statement given on 19 October 2019 (Official Record, Vol. 666, Col. 570-572) that Northern Ireland remains part of the UK customs territory.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
2nd Mar 2020
To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how the Northern Ireland executive will be represented on the (a) Joint Committee and (b) Specialised Committee with regard to implementation of the Northern Ireland/Ireland Protocol.

I refer the Hon. Member to the oral statement made by my Rt Hon friend the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster on 27 February 2020 (Official Record, Vol.672 Col.467-470)

The Government will ensure that representatives from the Northern Ireland Executive are invited to be part of the UK delegation in meetings of the UK-EU Specialised or Joint Committees discussing Northern Ireland specific matters which are also being attended by the Irish Government as part of the European Union’s delegation.

My Rt. Hon. Friend the Prime Minister has been clear in his statement given on 19 October 2019 (Official Record, Vol. 666, Col. 570-572) that Northern Ireland remains part of the UK customs territory.

Penny Mordaunt
Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons
1st Feb 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, with reference to the Second Special Report of the Environmental Audit Committee of Session 2017–19 on Toxic Chemicals in Everyday Life: Government Response to the Committee's Twentieth Report of Session 2017–19, HC160, published on 30 October 2019, what recent assessment she has made of the potential impact of chemical flame-retardant use in furniture filling materials on (a) health, (b) environmental wellbeing and (c) fire safety.

The Government has consulted on a new approach to the fire safety of domestic upholstered furniture and will set out its response in due course. The consultation included proposals to encourage and enable a reduction in the use of chemical flame retardants reflecting commitments made in the Government’s response to the Environmental Audit Committee’s 2019 report. Where flame retardants are used to meet the fire safety requirements, they must be compliant with all relevant UK chemicals regulations, including UK REACH.

Kevin Hollinrake
Minister of State (Department for Business and Trade)
29th Jun 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, what plans she has to promote dual market access under the Windsor Framework at the Northern Ireland Investment Summit on 12 and 13 September 2023.

Planning is ongoing how Northern Ireland’s innovation, sectoral expertise and unique strengths, including dual market access, will be showcased and promoted at the Northern Ireland Investment Summit in September.

Nigel Huddleston
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)
29th Jun 2023
To ask the Secretary of State for Business and Trade, whether she has had recent discussions with the (a) US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland, (b) other representatives of the US government, (c) representatives of the Irish government and (d) the European Commission on the Northern Ireland Investment Summit on 12 and 13 September 2023.

Department for Business and Trade and Northern Ireland Office officials are engaging with a wide local stakeholders and international counterparts to discuss their participation and support for the Northern Ireland Investment Summit.

Nigel Huddleston
Financial Secretary (HM Treasury)