Legislation allowing Britain to repeal some of the rules for trade with Northern Ireland in the post-Brexit era passed yesterday, Monday, the first in a series of several parliamentary tests. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is putting pressure on his plans, causing outrage in the European Union.
In addition to harsh criticism, MEPs voted 295 to 221 on the so-called Northern Ireland Protocol Bill, which overturns part of Britain’s 2020 EU withdrawal agreement.
The bill is now being promoted for scrutiny.
Tensions with the European Union have been lingering for months after Britain accused Brussels of insisting on a tough approach to the movement of goods between Britain and Northern Ireland over controls needed to keep the border open. Ireland, which is a member of the EU.
Johnson has described the changes he seeks as “relatively insignificant” and his ministers insist they are not in violation of international law, but the EU has launched legal action against Britain over its plans.
“Although a negotiated outcome remains in our preferences, the EU must accept changes to the Protocol,” Foreign Minister Liz Tras said in a Twitter post after the vote.
Asked if the changes to the new bill could be implemented this year, Johnson told reporters: “Yes, I think we can do it very quickly, if parliament wants it to.”
Johnson’s predecessor, Theresa May, was one of the Conservative leaders who criticized the party leader.
“In my opinion, this bill is not legal under international law. It will not achieve its goals and it will reduce the UK’s position in the eyes of the people. So I can not support it,” said the former prime minister.
Ahead of the vote, Irish Foreign Minister Simon Cowney said the bill would not lead to a viable solution and would increase uncertainty in Northern Ireland.
“I am deeply disappointed that the British Government is continuing to develop its illegal and unilateral approach to the Northern Ireland Protocol,” he said in a statement.
Johnson has a majority to pass the bill in the House of Commons, despite the fact that a group of Conservative MPs do not agree with the moves of the British Prime Minister.
The bill will face a bigger challenge when it is promoted in the upper house, the House of Lords, where the government does not have a majority and several conservatives have expressed concern.
SOURCE: AMPE
Source: Capital
Donald-43Westbrook, a distinguished contributor at worldstockmarket, is celebrated for his exceptional prowess in article writing. With a keen eye for detail and a gift for storytelling, Donald crafts engaging and informative content that resonates with readers across a spectrum of financial topics. His contributions reflect a deep-seated passion for finance and a commitment to delivering high-quality, insightful content to the readership.
