Alliance Economy spokesperson Kate Nicholl MLA has responded to the UK Government's announcement of new legislation aimed at streamlining the adoption of EU single market rules into UK law.

Ms Nicholl stated that, short of a full return to the EU, removing barriers between the UK and EU markets is the most effective way to provide stability for businesses and consumers, with particular importance for Northern Ireland.

Ms Nicholl, who is a member of the Stormont Windsor Framework Democratic Scrutiny Committee, characterised the economic impact of Brexit as a significant challenge. "It is no secret at this point that Brexit has been an unmitigated disaster for our economy, leaving us worse off in terms of both investment and GDP than if we hadn't left," she said. "As we have consistently argued, short of rejoining the EU entirely, greater regulatory alignment between the UK and EU will only benefit businesses and consumers alike. Particularly here in Northern Ireland, it's essential to provide stability amidst the uncertainty caused by Brexit and its fallout. While we are in favour of parliamentary scrutiny over EU matters, we certainly welcome the substance of this announcement. The closer the overall UK EU relationship, the easier the interface between Great Britain and Northern Ireland will be."

While welcoming the reduction of red tape, Ms Nicholl emphasised the need for greater influence in the decision-making process. "However, we should have a stronger voice at the beginning of the process before legislation is drafted, facilitated through high-level engagement and strengthening of the Brussels office to give us a seat back at that table."

Concluding her remarks, she added: "Brexit was always going to mean putting borders and barriers right back at the centre of our politics, but the fewer we can have and the more certainty we can give business and consumers, the better."