Lord Frost to meet politicians at Stormont

By Q Radio News

The UK’s Brexit minister is set to meet with MLAs at Stormont today. 

Lord Frost’s appearance before the Executive Office Committee comes just over a week after the European Commission’s vice president gave evidence. 

Speaking at a Policy Exchange think tank yesterday Mr. Frost said it is all about finding a solution that is acceptable to all:

SDLP MLA Colin McGrath, Chair of the Stormont Executive Office Committee, has welcomed the meeting.

It follows the attendance of European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič at an evidence session last week.

Commenting the Committee Chairman said:

“Northern Ireland is the area most impacted by the consequences of the hard Brexit chosen by the Conservative government in London.

While I welcome Lord Frost’s decision to meet with MLAs after his counterpart, European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič, provided evidence, he must be prepared to present practical solutions to the challenges we face rather than more platitudes.

“The European Commission has, this week, outlined a number of measures it is prepared to take to address the supply of medicines, the extension of grace periods and helping to resolve the challenges around the operation of the protocol.

We need to maximise that spirit of cooperation in the days and weeks ahead.

In our discussion with Vice President Šefčovič, he also understood the need to promote the opportunities that dual market access presents investors and exporters in Northern Ireland. We have a unique competitive advantage that is being drowned out by a chorus of negativity.

“Lord Frost must come to the committee with a similar willingness to address difficulties and promote opportunities.

This is not a forum for furthering political disagreements or deepening divisions. We all have to cooperate to make the new relationship work for people, businesses and communities here.

“I hope that we can see a positive approach from the UK government and look forward to the engagement with Lord Frost at our committee on Friday afternoon.”