Question to the Department for Exiting the European Union :

To ask the Secretary of State for Exiting the European Union, pursuant to his oral contribution of 29 January 2019, Official Report, column 755, on the EU (Withdrawal) Act 2018, which experts he proposes to consult on the technical points raised in the proposals of the hon. Member for North West Hampshire; and if he will make a statement on their response.

A number of members of the House have suggested ways to achieve alternative arrangements. This sits alongside the UK and the EU’s existing commitment to developing alternative arrangements to replace the backstop. The Political Declaration is also clear that this includes looking at how facilitative arrangements and technologies can avoid a hard border. Such arrangements are also referenced in the text of the Withdrawal Agreement.

The Government plans to continue discussion with members from around the House in the coming days to finalise proposals to go back to the EU.