Suspension of Northern Ireland Protocol ‘not inevitable’, Brandon Lewis insists

The transcript discusses the legal position regarding Article 16, emphasizing the desire to reach an agreement with the EU rather than triggering it. It highlights the importance of stability and certainty for businesses and consumers. The speaker mentions a command paper aimed at solving underlying issues and critiques the EU's proposals for not adequately addressing problems. Speculation about the suspension of the TCA is noted, but the focus remains on productive negotiations to benefit Northern Ireland.

What is the primary reason given for not triggering Article 16?

• The conditions have not been met.

• There is a desire to reach an agreement with the EU.

• It would cause instability in Northern Ireland.

• The EU has not responded to the proposals.

What is the purpose of the command paper mentioned in the discussion?

• To outline the legal basis for triggering Article 16.

• To provide a timeline for negotiations with the EU.

• To detail the consequences of suspending the TCA.

• To propose solutions to underlying problems with the EU.

What feedback has been received from businesses regarding the EU's proposals?

• They partially address the issues.

• They do not solve the problem in detail.

• They fully solve the problem.

• They are not relevant to the current situation.

What is the government's stance on the potential suspension of the TCA?

• They are prepared to counter it.

• They believe it is unlikely to happen.

• They are surprised by the speculation.

• They have already taken preventive measures.

What is considered the 'perfect outcome' for the negotiations?

• Triggering Article 16.

• Continuing discussions indefinitely.

• Suspending the TCA.

• Reaching a mutually agreeable conclusion.