Ulster Unionist MEP Jim Nicholson has welcomed the news that the European Commission will assist the UK Government and Bombardier in the ongoing dispute with Boeing and the US Department of Commerce.
Pointing out that Brussels has experience of taking on Boeing, Mr Nicholson said that the UK Government should be using every available avenue to defend Bombardier workers in Belfast.
Mr Nicholson said:
"It is welcome news that the European Commission has confirmed it will assist the UK Government and Bombardier in the ongoing dispute with Boeing and the US Department of Commerce.
"Europe has expertise and experience in taking on Boeing. In my years serving as chair of the European Parliament’s delegation for relations with the US Congress, trade disputes between aircraft manufacturers were often at the top of the agenda. In particular, during disputes between the US and the EU about Boeing and Airbus, the European Commission never missed an opportunity to highlight the advantage Boeing was able to accrue from the US Government.
"For this reason, over the past number of weeks I have been in contact with UK and EU officials to urge cooperation on this matter. It makes sense for Brussels to use its expertise on this case, not least as the protectionism from the current US administration will have implications for many other future disputes between the US and the EU.
"I will continue to press this issue in Brussels, but this news represents a step forward. The UK Government should be using every avenue possible to reverse this decision, and to defend Bombardier workers in Belfast.”