Ulster Unionist Windsor Framework spokesperson Dr Steve Aiken OBE MLA has called out the Government's silence over new parcel duty charges set to hit Northern Ireland consumers this July, warning that the burden of the Irish Sea Border is now being passed directly to the public.

Dr Steve Aiken OBE MLA said:

“The news that M&S and other retailers are calling on the government to impose a duty charge of £2.60 on low-value parcels is not unexpected. Westminster, led by Rachel Reeves, has sought to introduce this measure from 2029. Unfortunately for us, this duty, along with an administrative charge of €2, will be imposed on Northern Ireland from July.

“There has been a stunning silence from the Cabinet, Hilary Benn, and HMRC on what this means for Northern Ireland consumers. While some, including Alliance and other faithful implementers of the Windsor Framework, regard this as a welcome development, we question why it is being introduced here now rather than derogated, and, crucially, where does the revenue actually go?

“It is bad enough to have an Irish Sea Border imposed upon us. It is quite another to be given the privilege of paying for it.”