The NFU has given its initial response on the government’s proposals to replace the Irish/ Northern Irish ‘backstop’.
In a statement, the organisation said: “The NFU has argued strongly that we cannot leave the EU without a deal if we are to avoid significant damage to UK farming. While we welcome the fact that the government is continuing to pursue a deal with the EU that would secure an orderly Brexit, it is getting very late in the day and it of course remains to be seen whether the latest proposals will lead to a much needed breakthrough in negotiations.
“We will now look closely at the proposals themselves, and of course at the EU’s response and any counter-proposals. It is important that they strike the right balance between maintaining as free and frictionless trade as possible with the EU while respecting the Good Friday Agreement, and protecting the integrity and smooth functioning of the UK’s internal market.”
