Backstop bluff

Whatever happened to the Irish backstop? Only 11 weeks ago MPS passed the Brady amendment agreeing to support the May Deal on the condition that alternative arrangements were negotiated with the European Union. Brussels turned it down, but surely this would be an ideal rallying point between the Westminster parties and show a common front to call the EU’S bluff and either seriously look at the many viable options for a solution, or admit that, actually, they are trying every means possible to “drag us back into the EU against our will”, a will that would include many Remainers (like me) disillusioned by the EU’S approach.

The biggest loser from a backstop-induced hard Brexit is Ireland and its £1 billion of trade per week with the UK, the destination for half its beef, timber and construction exports.

In 1989 I sold a system to Dover Harbour Board to enable all customs clearance to be done prior to departure to reduce queues at Dover, its successor systems are still in use. Technology has moved on enormously since then. Common sense hasn’t.

ALLAN SUTHERLAND Willow Row, Stonehaven

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