Sort the border

Would a very modern version of a Boundaries Commission help resolve the developing impasse between the British and Irish governments and the European Union, so ably highlighted by Lesley Riddoch (Perspective, 27 November)? Arguably the question of the land border between the Republic and Northern Ireland should simply be sorted out through the recurring Brexit negotiations.

But sometimes in politics there is no substitute for clear focus. A special body looking at the whole question of preregistered goods, electronic invoicing, standard products and regulations, immigration and customs controls might help bring forward workable proposals. Irish prime minister Leo Varadkar would have to accept that the EU is essentially a customs union that fosters free trade within its boundaries, and that Britain is leaving that customs union. International Trade Secretary Liam Fox would have to accept that, given the close ties between the various parts of these islands, there ought to be special access arrangements. But agreement can be found if the will is there.

It has to be said that the idea of a Boundaries Commission has a terrible reputation in the Republic. One was set up in the 1921 Treaty that established the Irish Free State. Supporters of Irish unity believed that it would recommend changes that would make the northern state unviable. In fact it produced little in the way of real change, and was eventually abandoned in the 1920s in return for more favourable financial arrangements for the free state. that reputation should not mean that a new Commission, armed with all the tools of modern technology, cannot produce something positive and practical. That technology could help provide a framework that accepts the principle of UK withdrawal, recognises that a de facto border does exist, and allows the British and Irish people to move forward in peace and prosperity.

BOB TAYLOR Shiel Court, Glenrothes