Overview
Backstop is gone
The `backstop' is removed. The revised Protocol is no longer an insurance policy that applies unless and until the EU and the UK conclude a subsequent agreement that replaces it in part or in full. Instead, it is a fully legally operative solution that will continue to apply unless it fails to receive the support of the Northern Ireland Assembly.
What does it do?
The revised Protocol:
- Avoids a hard border on the island of Ireland
- Protects the all-island economy and the Good Friday Agreement, and
- Safeguards the integrity of the EU Single Market.
Border issues
- Northern Ireland will remain aligned to a limited set of Single Market rules to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland
- No customs border on the island of Ireland
- Northern Ireland remains part of the UK's customs territory.
Northern Ireland Assembly
- Will be able to determine the long-term application of relevant EU law in NI
- Will be asked to provide its continued support for the Protocol 4 years after the end of the transition period and every 4/8 years thereafter.
