Will Northern Ireland protocol “breakthrough” streamline trade for distributors?
The Windsor Framework, revealed this week by UK PM Rishi Sunak and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, has been hailed as the start of a “new chapter” for EU and UK trade relations and the Northern Ireland protocol.
It could be a significant breakthrough for the Northern Ireland protocol, which has become a post-Brexit trading challenge. Yesterday’s announcement included “3 big steps forward” while von der Leyen was visiting the UK for talks.
Goods destined for Northern Ireland will travel through a ‘green lane’ with a separate red lane for goods at risk of moving onto the European Union. The green lane will see the scrapping of “burdensome” customs bureaucracy.
The changes will also see streamlined online shopping for consumers between the UK mainland and Northern Ireland, with no customs paperwork required. Stormont is also to have a say on EU laws that may affect Northern Ireland and decide whether they will apply in the nation.
While the Windsor Framework is largely seen as a step forward, it’s not yet enshrined in law, with debates to be had by the legislative powers that be.
The news seems likely to have ramifications for the significant number of UK-based bicycle distributors that serve the United Kingdom – including Northern Ireland – and the Republic of Ireland.
Ursula von der Leyen tweeted: “We have reached an agreement in principle on the Windsor Framework for the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. Long-lasting solutions that will work for everyone in Northern Ireland and protect the EU’s Single Market.”
Rishi Sunak said: “We have now made a decisive breakthrough – together we have changed the original protocol and are announcing the new Windsor framework. To deliver smooth trade throughout the United Kingdom and safeguard sovereignty for the people of Northern Ireland.
Sunak added: “We have removed any sense of a border in the Irish Sea… This is a beginning of a new chapter in our [EU and UK] relationship.”
