At the plenary session, MEPs approved by 686 votes to 3 with 7 abstentions the regulation on tariff quotas with Northern Ireland. The Regulation ensures that the United Kingdom will no longer enjoy customs advantages via Northern Ireland, which is considered part of the Customs Union, after its withdrawal from the EU. The text specifies the countries benefiting from tariff quotas and excludes Northern Ireland from the list. The amendment voted by the Members provides that this text will enter into force on the day following its publication, and not 20 days afterwards.
In addition, the European Parliament approved by 653 votes to 10 with 31 abstentions the amendment of the regulation on the export of dual-use goods to ensure simpler exports to the United Kingdom of such goods. These are products that can have both civilian and military use, and their exports are subject to authorisation.
The 2009 Regulations provide for a general export authorisation for certain low-risk transactions. The amendment to that Regulation adds the United Kingdom to the list of countries covered by the general authorisation, considering that this will not have a negative impact in terms of safety. (Original version in French by Léa Marchal)