Devolved Nations Urged To Work Together Ahead Of Brexit

The chair of the Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) on EU negotiations has appealed to the UK and devolved administrations to "pull together in the national interest," to achieve the best outcome from Brexit.

David Lidington was speaking ahead of the next JMC meeting which will be attended by Brexit Secretary Dominic Raab, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Karen Bradley and representatives from the Northern Ireland civil service, as well as leaders from the Scottish and Welsh governments.

Mr Lidington said: "Since the last JMC in September, the UK Government has continued to work with the European Union on our proposals for a pragmatic and ambitious future relationship and we remain committed to reaching agreement this Autumn.

"Through these forums as well as regular ministerial conversations, we are making sure the views of the devolved administrations are heard and fed into the UK position throughout our negotiations.

"I believe it is right that we pull together in the national interest."

It comes amid a fresh challenge for the Prime Minister, as the DUP have threatened to vote against the Budget if she breaks their "red lines" on Brexit.

(JG)