Boris Johnson has confirmed a "great new deal" for Brexit that would see Northern Ireland remain aligned to some EU rules.
Following the deal, Nicola Sturgeon has insisted Scotland is now the only part of the UK being treated unfairly after it emerged a Brexit deal has been agreed with the EU.
The First Minister said it is now “clearer than ever” that independence is the best future for Scotland.
The revised protocol on Northern Ireland contains four key elements, two of which are on regulations and customs.
Regulations
Northern Ireland will remain aligned with Single Market regulations on goods. Checks and procedures on such goods will take place at ports and airports in Northern Ireland and not on the border. The UK authorities will, therefore, assume responsibility for applying the EU rules in Northern Ireland.
READ MORE: Nicola Sturgeon: New Brexit deal treats Scotland unfairly
Custom duties
Northern Ireland will remain a part of the UK’s customs territory, so it will be included in any future trade deals struck by the Government after Brexit. However, the region will also remain an entry point into the EU’s customs zone. UK authorities will apply UK tariffs to products entering Northern Ireland as long as they are not destined for onward transportation across the border. For goods at risk of entering the single market, the UK will collect EU tariffs on behalf of the bloc.
VAT
EU rules on Value Added Tax and excise duties will apply in Northern Ireland, with the UK responsible for their collection. However, revenues derived will be retained by the UK.
The UK will also be able to apply VAT exemptions and reduced rates in Northern Ireland that are applied in Ireland.
Consent
Stormont Assembly members will vote whether to continue to apply the arrangements after an initial four-year period following them coming into effect at the start of 2021.
Significantly, that vote will be conducted on a simple majority headcount at Stormont and will not require the support of a majority of unionists and a majority of nationalists under the contentious “petition of concern” mechanism. This means the DUP will not have the chance to exercise a veto.
READ MORE: Boris Johnson confident he can get deal through parliament as DUP 'lose veto'
If the vote is carried, the arrangements will be extended for another four years.
However, if it transpires that a majority of unionists and a majority of nationalists do ultimately vote in favour of the move, then the extension period will be for eight years.
If members vote to come out of the EU arrangements there would be a two-year cooling off period before that happened
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