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<p>The annexes to the Protocol set out the small fraction of EU rules that would apply
in the event that the backstop was in effect - though as we have been clear, we fully
expect alternative arrangements to be in place to avoid the need for its use by the
end of 2020.</p><p>In that scenario, the only EU rules that apply would be the fraction
strictly necessary to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland and give frictionless
access to the EU market for all goods from Northern Ireland’s businesses. That includes,
as we have set out in the explainer to the Agreement and other accompanying documents,
product standards on industrial goods and agricultural goods. But the net effect in
a backstop would be significantly increased powers and flexibility for a restored
Northern Ireland Assembly and for Parliament. For example, the Protocol is clear that
in the case of non-harmonised goods (such as clothing), the placing of goods on the
market would be a matter for the United Kingdom.</p><p> </p>
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