News / Isles MP on Brexit committee
NORTHERN Isles MP Alistair Carmichael has been appointed to a new select committee overseeing the UK’s impending departure from the European Union.
The committee, set up to scrutinise the government as it negotiates to leave the EU, is due to meet for the first time on Wednesday.
Speaking in the House of Commons on Tuesday, Carmichael challenged the business secretary Greg Clark on the impact Brexit will have on exports from small businesses which will be unable to secure government deals in the way car manufacturing giant Nissan did.
“The secretary of state deserves credit for a significant and substantial achievement,” he said, “but special deals for the car industry or the financial services sector offer little comfort to the thousands of small businesses the length and breadth of this country that depend on exports for their livelihood.”
Clark responded that he was aware of the challenges and would continue to engage with local chambers of commerce to ensure small businesses are represented.
Carmichael, who campaigned to remain within the EU during June’s referendum campaign, said afterwards: “Brexit will throw up considerable challenges for our economy over the months and years ahead.
“Ministers across all departments will have to work with businesses to ensure investment continues throughout the Brexit process.”
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.
Already a supporter? Sign in to hide this message.
