Dave,
From what I remember of my schooldays an agreement is a two part thing. One party cannot have an agreement without the other

That was my point Dave. Only one side, us, has so far undertaken no border change. EU will not.

Steve,
Keith is talking as though the Republic hasn't got a dog in this race.

Of course they have. A hard border is the last thing that they want.
But still, EU keeps threatening one.
UK's position is clear. We will not impose a hard border "under any circumstances."
Not an "aspiration" Steve, but a firm commitment.

Ireland can not make such a commitment because it is not independent.