Protocol petition secures Westminster debate as Europe explores “flexibilities”

Q Radio News

A DUP petition opposing the Northern Ireland Protocol has hit its initial target of 100,000 signatures in less than 36 hours.

Party leader Arlene Foster says it means the online effort has reached the threshold to require a Westminster debate.

The petition launched on Thursday calls for unfettered trade between GB and Northern Ireland.

The First Minister tweeted a video on Friday afternoon:

YES! WE DID IT! In less than 36 hours. People power and politics in action together. Thanks to all who signed from across our U.K. People do care. Please keep promoting and signing - it will magnify our voice in the Parliamentary debate.https://t.co/2cw17VBWFC pic.twitter.com/u9YU2fZ50P

— Arlene Foster #WeWillMeetAgain (@DUPleader) February 5, 2021

Meanwhile, it's reported the European Commission is exploring all “flexibilities” available within Northern Ireland’s post-Brexit trade deal.

President Ursula von der Leyen recognised particular concern around the health certification of imported food products.

The DUP has vowed to scrap the Northern Ireland Protocol, which keeps the Irish land border open since the country follows EU regulations, following disruption to some supplies from the rest of the UK earlier this year.

Ms von der Leyen told Northern Ireland Assembly Speaker Alex Maskey: “I can assure you that the Commission has been exploring all flexibilities available under the applicable rules of Union law and within the framework of the protocol, in order to facilitate the implementation of the protocol, whilst fully protecting the integrity of the Union’s single market and customs union.”