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Written question asked by Adam Jogee (Labour) on Monday, 6 July 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 July 2026. It was answered by Hilary Benn (Labour) on Tuesday, 14 July 2026 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

UK Internal Trade: Northern Ireland

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent steps he has taken to improve trade links between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

Answer

The new SPS Agreement we are negotiating with the EU will facilitate the smooth flow of agrifood and plants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland - protecting the UK’s internal market, reducing costs for businesses and improving consumer choice.

Working with the EU and fast parcel operators, we have ensured that, from 1 July, the vast majority of Low Value Imports will not face EU duties when moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, helping to cut costs and protect GB-NI trade.

At the last budget, the Government announced £16.6 million to strengthen the UK internal market and help Northern Ireland boost trade with Great Britain. This will include a comprehensive ‘one stop shop’ regulatory support service that will support businesses to trade across the UK and benefit from Northern Ireland’s unique dual market access.

This includes over £2 million in funding for Intertrade UK over the next three years, to promote business and trade opportunities across the UK internal market.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
16209
Session
2026-27
Subjects
Northern Ireland UK internal trade
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk