EU will have an office in Northern Ireland from Jan 1, source confirms. / A British cave after months of insisting no EU feet on the ground.

The EU has proposed to the UK that the EEAS will open an office in Belfast, in recognition of Northern Ireland’s unique position, but this proposal has reportedly been rejected by Whitehall.

Ministers’ letter confirms border control posts at ports of Belfast, Warrenpoint and Larne.

Pro-Remain parties in Northern Ireland criticise ‘petty’ decision by UK government.

UK Cabinet Office minister Michael Gove has opposed a previous request by the EU to maintain an office in Belfast to oversee the NI Protocol.

The Irish Government believes the office would be a reflection of the EU's 'ongoing support' for the peace process.

MICHAEL Gove has suggested that EU officials may need to cross the border into the north in order to oversee checks on goods.

UK refuses request from Brussels for Northern Ireland presence for second time.

Government now rejecting EU oversight of implementing Northern Ireland agreement.

The UK position 14 months ago is in sharp contrast to the flat rejection of an EU office in Belfast under Boris Johnson's government.