Foreign Secretary James Cleverly says the UK is committed to striking a deal with the EU that “comforts” the DUP.
Speaking to GB News Political Editor Darren McCaffrey in an exclusive interview, Cleverly says the Government is intent on “protecting” Northern Ireland’s place in the UK.
The Foreign Secretary spoke after reports suggested Rishi Sunak and Ursula von der Leyen shared a ‘positive’ phonecall.
He told GB News: “We remain focused on the outcome rather than the method.
“The outcome is to protect Northern Ireland’s place in the union, to make sure people, businesses and political representatives of those people in Northern Ireland are comfortable with the resolution, while also making sure that we protect the UK internal market.
“They are very much our motivations, that’s what will drive our actions.”
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is said to be closing in on a new post-Brexit deal for Northern Ireland, with rumours circulating that he is set to meet the European Commission president.
Securing a deal would set up a possible clash with Conservative Brexit hardliners, with Tory MPs being ordered to be in Parliament on a three-line whip on Monday.
Rishi Sunak is said to have held positive talks with Ursula von der Leyen
Ben Stansall
Sunak has promised that Parliament will be able to “express its view” over any deal, which he hopes will get the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) to restore powersharing in Northern Ireland.
But he would come under intense pressure if he does not give them an explicit vote, amid fears there could be a rebellion.
A deal had been hoped for this week but Downing Street said on Friday that “intensive discussions” with the EU were ongoing.
But the likelihood of an announcement was boosted after sources in London and Brussels described the call between the Prime Minister and Ms von der Leyen as “positive”.
James Cleverly wants to 'comfort' political representatives in Northern IrelandImage: GB News
A Downing Street source said there had been “good progress”.
No 10 sources confirmed that Sunak on Friday also had “constructive engagement” with supermarket bosses and “fast parcel operators”, along with other businesses, about the protocol and the issues he is attempting to fix.
Cabinet ministers have been put on alert for a possible conference call over the weekend, according to The Times.
