Raising the issue during Northern Ireland Questions in the House of Commons, Ms Lockhart highlighted the unacceptable cost now facing firms, including a staggering £86 charge to send a simple box of ties from England to Northern Ireland because of the new parcel border. She also drew attention to growing frustration within the rural economy, as used agricultural machinery is being refused entry into Northern Ireland under full EU import procedures despite being visibly clean, road-driven only, and entirely suitable for safe use.

Speaking following the exchange, Carla Lockhart MP said:

“The Secretary of State’s response today was completely out of touch with the reality faced by people and businesses in Northern Ireland. His lack of awareness as to the scale of the damage being caused by the Windsor Framework is deeply concerning particularly in the wake of the Federation of Small Businesses report is staggering.

It is nonsensical that used machinery coming from Great Britain is being stopped and turned away unless it is fully washed and certified all because it might carry ‘British soil’. These machines are often immaculate, having travelled only by road, and yet are treated as if they pose some biosecurity threat. This bureaucratic madness is putting real strain on farmers, hauliers, and suppliers who are simply trying to earn a living.

The Secretary of State must face reality. The Protocol and now the Windsor Framework is not working for the people of Northern Ireland. These are not theoretical problems. They are here-and-now consequences for people trying to trade within what is supposed to be a United Kingdom.”

Ms Lockhart has written formally to the Secretary of State requesting an urgent meeting with a delegation of affected industry leaders. She said it is essential that those directly impacted by these rules are finally heard by Government.

“Too many are being left behind while Ministers pretend everything is operating smoothly. It isn’t. The cost, the delays, the red tape they’re pushing small businesses to breaking point. I will continue to be a loud voice for those who have been ignored for too long. An awful wrong has been forced on the people of Northern Ireland, and I will keep working to make it right.”