Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with shipping companies serving Northern Ireland about higher emissions coverage on routes between Northern Ireland and Great Britain under the UK Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) than on routes between the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain under the EU ETS; and what further discussions they plan to have with affected operators before July.

The Government is applying a 50% deduction in surrender obligation for voyages between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. This removes any disparity between the UK ETS and EU ETS, ensuring equivalent carbon pricing within the Irish Sea.

The Government consulted extensively with the maritime sector, to ensure all perspectives informed policy development.

During consultation, the Government provided bespoke engagement sessions including a roundtable for Northern Ireland stakeholders.

Government officials continue to engage and have subsequently held individual meetings with key stakeholders and industry bodies. Regulators are running a voluntary onboarding period which will help the sector engage with the ETS ahead of July.