AQW 10219/22-27

Mr Jim Allister KC
Traditional Unionist Voice
North Antrim

Tabled Date: 16/04/2024
Answered On Date: 25/04/2024
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 9625/22-27, (i) whether he is asserting no consultation was held, given the Explanatory Memorandum accompanying the Windsor Framework Regulations 2024 claims the government consulted with the relevant ministers; (ii) in the absence of a formal consultation, whether there was an informal or any other type of consultation; and (iii) to detail the response of his Department.

Answer:

I can confirm that as Minister I did not have an opportunity to input into any formal consultative process with relation to the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024.

I and my officials were given opportunity to comment on the statutory guidance referenced in regulation 4 and also on the extent to which Secretary of State might exercise his discretion as provided for in regulation 3. In providing comment, my aim was to raise relevant concerns, ensure clarity on the scope of the regulations and on how they might work in operation.