CapX, June 27
For devolution to work it must be based on the consent of both unionists and nationalists and on respect for all aspects of the Belfast Agreement, which includes relations with the rest of the UK as well as with the Irish Republic.
Every proposed solution so far has elevated an open border between Northern Ireland and the Irish Republic above open trade between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. This approach has delighted nationalists but alienated unionists.
Theresa May’s backstop, Boris Johnson’s Protocol and Rishi Sunak’s Windsor Framework are all based on a nationalist approach to finding a solution, driving a coach and horses through the Acts of Union as well as the Belfast Agreement as amended, and leading ultimately to the collapse of the political institutions.
If a hard border on the island of Ireland is unacceptable it is equally, if not more unacceptable, to create a hard border between Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK.
Whilst the Windsor Framework made some adjustments and changes in the operation of the Protocol, it does not solve the fundamental problem.
The Protocol/Windsor Framework has placed Northern Ireland under EU laws affecting large parts of our economy. Law makers elected by the people of NI have had no vote or say on the plethora of laws affecting them. The DUP has made it clear that the Windsor Framework fails its seven tests and in the recent council elections it received an overwhelming endorsement from the unionist electorate for its stance. The seven tests are reiterations of pledges and commitments made by Prime Ministers to the people of Northern Ireland.
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