MEP says Brexit Backstop is a 'Busted Flush'

MEP Jim Nicholson has said that the proposed border backstop in Brexit negotiations will not work.

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The former Newry and Armagh MP has called on the UK and EU to look at other Brexit solutions to make progress in the negotiations.

Mr Nicholson was speaking in the European Parliament as MEPs debated last week’s EU Council summit, he highlighted the fact that Unionists across the UK are united in opposition to an Irish Sea border.

Speaking after the debate, Mr Nicholson said “Pro-Union people right across the United Kingdom are united in their opposition to a customs or regulatory border between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.

“The latest trick to sell this seems to be another backstop behind the backstop. This is getting ridiculous.

“As a Unionist I do not want to see either a bad deal or no deal. Both options would have serious consequences for both the UK and the EU. The backstop process was designed to speed up progress in negotiations. In fact it has actually left talks teetering over the edge.

“Both parties should look at other solutions to get this right, rather than boxing themselves into a corner saying the only options are an Irish Sea border or no deal.

“The backstop is a busted flush. It will not work.”