To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, in relation to an expected increase in regulatory sanitary and phytosanitary screening of animals and food products, what measures his Department is taking to prevent delays in supply chains.

I have been clear all along that I want this aspect of the Northern Ireland Protocol implemented in a way that minimises any frictions on the flow of goods into and out of Northern Ireland, one that works for our businesses and citizens.

I have directly engaged with Minister Eustice on several occasions in the past months to ensure that we take the necessary steps to minimise and remove where possible the impacts on the movement of goods, including food, into and out of Northern Ireland.

At all stages, I have clearly outlined to my officials as part of the programme delivery that I want to see the levels of facilities minimised, that any physical inspections at the points of entry are as low as possible and that any costs to businesses are removed. I have indeed challenged them on several occasions over the past months asking them to consider in detail how these requirements are met, as I am mindful that negotiations with the EU commission are ongoing.

DAERA are currently developing proposals in conjunction with Defra and will share them in due course. Their discussions with UK Government colleagues have also included Food Supply Contingency planning in relation to Northern Ireland. DAERA, working collaboratively with other Executive Departments, continues to lead on the regular assessment of the health of Northern Ireland’s food supply chain and my officials are committed to developing associated contingency plans.