Mrs Long confirmed her party would vote in favour of retaining the Framework in an Assembly vote. She said those voting to remove it would be causing more instability at a time when people need the opposite.

“Alliance has always been a strongly pro-European party and warned from the beginning Brexit would bring about new borders and barriers, with resulting uncertainty and instability. Those who advocated not only for Brexit but the hardest possible one will be judged by history but in the meantime, the Windsor Framework remains the only viable option at clearing up the mess they caused.

“The last thing Northern Ireland needs is more political instability. People and businesses are facing enough already, and with the Framework presenting an agreed way forward between the UK and EU, and a softer landing from Brexit, it is crucial parties vote to maintain it tomorrow. This is not a constitutional issue – no matter the outcome of tomorrow’s vote, Northern Ireland will remain a part of the UK.

“The Windsor Framework is far from perfect but thanks to the hard Brexit pursued by the former UK Government and DUP, it is what we need to answer the challenges posed to our region. Alliance will continue working on reducing the level of checks in the Irish Sea, including through our proposals on an agreement around agri-food and drink.

“The key to resolving the issues posed by Brexit is a closer alignment with the EU, so people can interact more smoothly and businesses can use supply chains easily on both a north-south and east-west basis. We must all do what is right for Northern Ireland and tomorrow, that is supporting the pragmatic solutions offered by the Windsor Framework.

“By doing that, we will be able to begin to use the opportunities presented to us via the Framework to exploit the positives it brings, such as dual market access, and the millions of potential customers that provides, in the best interests of all the people we serve.”