Jim Allister Challenges UK Government on Internal Market Guarantee

Jim Allister, the leader of the Traditional Unionist Voice (TUV) and Member of Parliament for North Antrim, has raised serious concerns regarding the UK Government’s internal market arrangements. During a recent debate in Parliament, Allister highlighted the so-called “Safeguarding the Union” provision, which mandates that at least 80% of freight moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland should operate within the UK Internal Market System.

Allister’s remarks come ahead of an anticipated report from the Independent Monitoring Panel on this issue. He argues that, despite assurances from the government, the existing arrangements still impose a customs and international sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) border, which affects the movement of goods. The government claims that less than 20% of goods will face these restrictions, portraying it as a significant improvement. However, Allister firmly believes that this characterization is misleading.

Concerns Over Trade Border Arrangements

The concept of the “UK Internal Market System” implies seamless trade within the UK. Yet, Allister contends that products traveling from Great Britain to Northern Ireland must comply with various regulatory requirements, including obtaining an export number and adhering to customs formalities dictated by EU Regulations 2023/1186 and 2023/1231. He notes that even the most streamlined options still resemble an international border experience.

According to Allister, the distinction between the so-called Green Lane and the Red Lane is negligible, as both require compliance with export regulations and customs checks. He argues that this system does not preserve the integrity of the UK Internal Market but effectively creates an international trade border. He emphasizes that labeling this arrangement as an internal market system is disingenuous and undermines the trust of the Northern Irish people.

Impact on Consumers and Local Economy

The implications of these trade barriers extend beyond logistics; they directly affect consumers in Northern Ireland. Until June 30, 2025, the Movement Assistance Scheme alleviated some costs associated with importing goods, such as veterinary inspections and SPS forms. With its expiration, these costs have been transferred to consumers, potentially driving up prices and limiting the availability of goods. Allister warns that if these additional expenses are not absorbed, suppliers in Great Britain may cease their operations in Northern Ireland altogether.

The ongoing situation raises questions about the future of the UK’s internal market. Allister stresses that the government’s approach is detrimental, creating further complications for Northern Ireland’s political landscape. He indicates that the DUP’s return to government was predicated on assurances regarding the UK Internal Market Guarantee and the oversight of the Independent Monitoring Panel.

“Allister asserts that the upcoming report from the Monitoring Panel will only serve to highlight the ongoing issues rather than reassure unionists,” he stated. He describes this as a missed opportunity to restore the integrity of the UK Internal Market, which had been upheld since the Acts of Union in 1800 until recent changes.

The TUV leader calls for a reconsideration of the mechanisms initially developed within the EU that aimed to protect the integrity of both the EU and UK internal markets. He believes that a return to these principles is essential for safeguarding the interests of Northern Ireland and its citizens.

The complex interplay of regulations and trade agreements continues to shape the economic landscape of Northern Ireland. As Allister has made clear, addressing these challenges is critical for maintaining stability and ensuring that the people of Northern Ireland are not subjected to laws they did not create.