Carla Lockhart said:

“Whilst others argued for the rigorous implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol, the DUP made clear to our Government and to the EU that it would have to be replaced with new arrangements that could command cross community consent.

The Windsor Framework represents progress on a range of issues, and vindicates our stance of demanding better for everyone in Northern Ireland. Whilst undoubtedly some problems remain, we continue to engage with the Government on these areas of concern.

Of course key to determining community consent is engagement with the community, and listening. I am pleased to have been asked to serve on the Party’s Consultative Panel, which has been tasked with garnering the views of people across society. We want to hear from as many people as possible before we report to Sir Jeffrey at the end of March, so I would encourage people to get in touch.

You can share your views via email, to me at carla.lockhart.mp@parliament.uk or to the party centrally at consultation@dup.org.uk – we would love to hear from as broad a section of society as possible.

This decision will shape the future of Northern Ireland, and as such it is vital it is taken having considered all aspects of the Framework and our wider political and economic situation. Please have your say.”