Northern Ireland Office

We ensure the smooth working of the devolution settlement in Northern Ireland.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Baroness Suttie (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Northern Ireland)
Alistair Carmichael (LD - Orkney and Shetland)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Northern Ireland)

Conservative
Alex Burghart (Con - Brentwood and Ongar)
Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Paul Holmes (Con - Hamble Valley)
Shadow Minister (Northern Ireland)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Fleur Anderson (Lab - Putney)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Wednesday 11th September 2024
Patrick Finucane Murder
Commons Chamber
Select Committee Inquiry
Monday 5th February 2024
Defence Spending in Northern Ireland

The Committee is launching a new inquiry on defence spending in Northern Ireland.

Despite its potential, Ministry of Defence spending …

Written Answers
Friday 13th September 2024
Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner: Resignations
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of (1) the reasons behind, and (2) the consequences of, …
Secondary Legislation
Wednesday 24th April 2024
Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (Biometric Material) Regulations 2024
These Regulations provide for the retention of biometric material, which would otherwise be destroyed, for use by the Independent Commission …
Bills
Wednesday 24th January 2024
Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Act 2024
A Bill to make provision to extend the period following the Northern Ireland Assembly election of 5 May 2022 during …
Dept. Publications
Wednesday 11th September 2024
13:40

Northern Ireland Office Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
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Bills currently before Parliament

Northern Ireland Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Northern Ireland Office has not passed any Acts during the 2024 Parliament

Northern Ireland Office - Secondary Legislation

These Regulations provide for the retention of biometric material, which would otherwise be destroyed, for use by the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (“the ICRIR”).
The Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (“the ICRIR”) was established by section 2 of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (c. 41) (“the Act”). Section 34 of the Act allows the Secretary of State to make provision in regulations about the holding and handling of information by the ICRIR.
View All Northern Ireland Office Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Trending Petitions
Petitions with most signatures
Northern Ireland Office has not participated in any petition debates
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Departmental Select Committee

Northern Ireland Affairs Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


1 Members of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee
Tonia Antoniazzi Portrait
Tonia Antoniazzi (Labour - Gower)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 9th September 2024
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
Unfettered Access: Northern Ireland and customs arrangements after Brexit Brexit and Northern Ireland inquiry Fisheries inquiry Electricity sector in Northern Ireland: follow-up Agriculture inquiry The land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland: Follow-up inquiry Education funding in Northern Ireland inquiry Funding priorities in the 2018-19 Budget: Health Consultation on Stormont House Agreement inquiry Existing passport processes inquiry Changes to NI Renewable Heat Incentive payments inquiry Tourism in Northern Ireland inquiry Implications of the EU withdrawal agreement and the backstop for Northern Ireland inquiry Support for UK Victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi supplied Semtex and weapons: Follow-up inquiry Historical Institutional Abuse inquiry Welfare policy in Northern Ireland inquiry Organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland inquiry Devolution and democracy in Northern Ireland – dealing with the deficit Bombardier inquiry Work of the Secretary of State inquiry Update from the Police Service of Northern Ireland inquiry The land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland Northern Ireland and the EU Referendum inquiry Implementation of English votes for English laws inquiry Electricity sector in Northern Ireland inquiry Work of the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors inquiry The work of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland evidence session Future of the land border with the Republic of Ireland inquiry The work of the Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland inquiry An air transport strategy for Northern Ireland Air passenger duty: implications for Northern Ireland Corporation Tax in Northern Ireland Fuel laundering and smuggling Draft Northern Ireland Bill The banking structure in Northern Ireland Outcome of the Spending Review and the Talks Promoting the tourism industry in Northern Ireland through the tax system inquiry Responsibilities of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland HM Government support for UK victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi-supplied Semtex and weapons inquiry Administrative scheme for "on-the-runs" Cross-border co-operation on policing, security and criminal justice after Brexit The effectiveness of the institutions of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement The funding and delivery of public services in Northern Ireland Integrated Education Renewable Energy and Net Zero in Northern Ireland Defence Spending in Northern Ireland Agriculture Brexit and Northern Ireland Implications of the EU withdrawal agreement and the backstop for Northern Ireland Changes to NI Renewable Heat Incentive payments Consultation on Stormont House Agreement Education funding in Northern Ireland Existing passport processes Funding priorities in the 2018-19 Budget: Health Historical Institutional Abuse Support for UK Victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi supplied Semtex and weapons: Follow-up Organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland Tourism in Northern Ireland Update from the Police Service of Northern Ireland Work of the Secretary of State

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

6th Sep 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of (1) the reasons behind, and (2) the consequences of, the resignation of the Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner: and whether they intend to seek a successor.

Over the last four years, Northern Ireland’s first Veterans Commissioner, Danny Kinahan, worked on a range of important issues that affect veterans in everyday life, including health, housing, and welfare. The Government would like to thank Danny for his dedicated work on behalf of veterans and families living in Northern Ireland. On 5 September, he resigned from the role. A statement setting out his position has been published on the Veterans Commissioner’s website.

The Government is committed to continuing to support veterans in Northern Ireland, and will set out next steps for the appointment of a new Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner in due course.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
6th Sep 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have any plans to amend (1) the terms of reference, and (2) the remit, of the Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner.

We are committed to continuing to support veterans in Northern Ireland and we will set out next steps for the appointment of a new Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner in due course.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
9th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when he plans to appoint a new Veterans’ Commissioner for Northern Ireland.

We are committed to continuing to support veterans in Northern Ireland, including through the Veterans Welfare Service NI and the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust. We will set out next steps for the appointment of a new Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner in due course.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
9th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will make the Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner a full time post.

We will set out next steps for the appointment of a new Northern Ireland Veterans Commissioner in due course.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
9th Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 9 September 2024 to Question 3049 on Patrick Finucane, if he will publish copies of his letters to (a) Mrs Finucane and (b) the Court of Appeal.

On Wednesday 11 September, I made an oral statement to Parliament announcing the Government’s intention to establish an independent inquiry into the death of Patrick Finucane. I have notified the Northern Ireland Court of Appeal of this decision and Mrs Geraldine Finucane’s agreement to it.

The matter is still live before the Court. As such, I do not currently intend to publish these letters. Should I choose to publish them in future, I would seek Mrs Finucane’s and the Court’s approval to do so.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will publish his request to the Court of Appeal in Northern Ireland for extra time to consider the ruling in the case of Geraldine Finucane v Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

I met with Mrs Finucane on 25 July to hear firsthand her views, during which I explained that I would likely be required to seek an extension to the timetable set by the Court. I then wrote to Mrs Finucane and the Court of Appeal setting out in detail the rationale for the extension request, most notably that, in light of the recent change in government, the requirement for cross-government consultation, the need for officials across government to provide new Ministers with a full briefing on the case, and the parliamentary summer recess period during August, it would not be possible to reach a government decision on a process for investigation of the relevant aspects of Patrick Finucane’s death, that would be compliant with Article 2 of the European Court of Human Rights, within the timescale set by the Court (ie. by 22 August 2024).

Mrs Finucane did not object to the Government’s request and the Court has granted the Government an extension to 27 September 2024 to respond to its judgement of 11 July 2024.

I want to ensure that the Government makes a decision on this case as soon as possible and that this decision takes account of the views of Mrs Finucane.

I will update the House on the Government’s position in due course.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will publish the letter from Sir Iain Livingstone on the discovery of new documents relevant to Operation Kenova.

The letter addressed to me from Sir Iain Livingstone regarding the discovery of new documents relevant to Operation Kenova has already been published on the Operation Kenova website.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the potential impact of the General Product Safety Regulations on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Government engages in regular discussions with both the Northern Ireland Executive and the EU on matters of mutual interest.

The updated General Product Safety Regulations largely formalises the reality of how businesses are already operating in the UK and the measures are therefore likely to have limited impact. Where businesses need to make changes, we expect that they will be adapting anyway in order to continue trading with the EU. We are providing more guidance to businesses in this area, will keep this under review, and continue to engage with businesses directly to ensure we are supporting them to trade freely across the whole of the UK.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with Cabinet colleagues on the potential impact of the General Product Safety Regulations on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Government engages in regular discussions with both the Northern Ireland Executive and the EU on matters of mutual interest.

The updated General Product Safety Regulations largely formalises the reality of how businesses are already operating in the UK and the measures are therefore likely to have limited impact. Where businesses need to make changes, we expect that they will be adapting anyway in order to continue trading with the EU. We are providing more guidance to businesses in this area, will keep this under review, and continue to engage with businesses directly to ensure we are supporting them to trade freely across the whole of the UK.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the EU on the potential impact of the General Product Safety Regulations on trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Government engages in regular discussions with both the Northern Ireland Executive and the EU on matters of mutual interest.

The updated General Product Safety Regulations largely formalises the reality of how businesses are already operating in the UK and the measures are therefore likely to have limited impact. Where businesses need to make changes, we expect that they will be adapting anyway in order to continue trading with the EU. We are providing more guidance to businesses in this area, will keep this under review, and continue to engage with businesses directly to ensure we are supporting them to trade freely across the whole of the UK.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what the cost to his Department was of ministerial severance payments in each year from 19 December 2019 to 30 May 2024; which Ministers received a severance payment; and how much each Minister received.

The provision of severance payments for Ministers is set out in legislation. Details of the severance payments made to ministers when leaving office are published in the Department’s Annual Report and Accounts available at https://www.gov.uk/. The amounts for 2023-24 will be included in the Department’s forthcoming Annual Report and Accounts upon completion of the year end audit.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent discussions he has had with the (a) NI Executive and (b) Police Service of Northern Ireland on anti-immigration disorder and violence in Belfast in August 2024.

The disorder was unacceptable and does not represent the real Northern Ireland. Public safety and community cohesion are primarily the responsibility of local elected Ministers and I have therefore remained in close contact with the NI Executive and the Police Service of Northern Ireland on this matter.

I met the First and deputy First Minister and spoke with the Justice Minister who all share my shock and concern at the targeting of violence and intimidation towards minority communities in Northern Ireland.

I also met the Chief Constable to express my sincere thanks to the PSNI for working tirelessly in extremely difficult conditions to keep communities in Northern Ireland safe. My officials and I continue to engage regularly with the PSNI.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
2nd Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he is taking steps to secure further funding for Harland and Wolf in Northern Ireland.

Following a comprehensive assessment of the company’s financial profile and the criteria set out in UK Government risk policies, the Secretary of State for Business and Trade confirmed in a Written Ministerial Statement on 22 July that the UK Government had decided not to proceed with the provision of an Export Development Guarantee to Harland and Wolff.

This was not an easy decision, but we concluded that the market is best placed to resolve these commercial matters. Government funding would not necessarily secure our objectives, and there is a risk that taxpayer money would be lost.

We want to see an outcome for Harland and Wolff that delivers shipbuilding and fabrication in Northern Ireland and protects jobs, and we encourage all parties to engage with trade unions before further decisions are made.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
2nd Sep 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, which veterans' organisations he has met with to discuss his plans for the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

In my written ministerial statement of 29 July 2024, I committed to undertake a period of consultation with all interested parties, including veterans organisations, to hear views regarding a practical way forward on legacy issues that complies with human rights and can command support across communities in Northern Ireland and beyond.

I began this process by meeting the Victims and Survivors Forum and the South East Fermanagh Foundation on 28 August 2024, and will meet with other organisations, including those representing veterans, in the period ahead.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Aug 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent discussions he has had with the Minister for Communities in Northern Ireland on the potential impact of changes to the eligibility criteria for the Winter Fuel Payment on people in Northern Ireland.

The Winter Fuel Payment is a devolved matter in Northern Ireland and its delivery and the eligibility criteria are the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Department for Communities.

The Northern Ireland Executive is responsible for balancing its own budget. The Executive has made a decision to maintain parity with the UK Government by requiring receipt of the Winter Fuel Payment to be means tested.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will take steps to ensure that (a) the Belfast News Letter and (b) other news outlets are given equal rights to ask questions at his Department's press conferences.

The Northern Ireland Office invites a wide range of news outlets to its departmental press conferences.

During press conferences, as many news outlets as possible are given an opportunity to ask a question. However, it is not always possible for every media outlet to ask a question due to time constraints.

News outlets can pose questions at any time to the department’s press office.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
25th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he plans to take steps to (a) convene the East-West Council and (b) establish Intertrade UK.

The Government is committed to taking all necessary steps to protect the UK internal market, and to making progress on the commitments made in the Safeguarding the Union command paper. This includes taking steps to establish Intertrade UK and to convene the next meeting of the East-West Council, which had its inaugural meeting in March 2024.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what (a) statutory and (b) non-statutory direct ministerial appointments excluding special advisers he has made; and (i) who the appointee was and (ii) what the (A) remuneration, (B) title and (C) terms of reference was for each appointment.

Since becoming Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 5 July, I have not made any statutory or non-statutory direct ministerial appointments.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
26th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with the Victims Payments Board in Northern Ireland on the eligibility deadline for the backdated lump sum payment of the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme.

In view of concerns raised by stakeholders that some potential applicants could lose out on backdated payments, I have decided to extend the date for which backdated payments can be made from the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme by two years, from 31 August 2024 to 31 August 2026.

This extension will allow anyone deemed eligible in the five-year lifespan of the scheme, which makes acknowledgement payments to individuals who have been permanently injured during the Troubles, to avail of a payment backdated to 2014.

This will assist both those who have suffered and are applying to the scheme, and those who are supporting applicants.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the report from the General Consumer Council in Northern Ireland published in July regarding trade flows between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and the impact on consumers.

The UK government continues to monitor internal trade between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. The Windsor Framework represents a massive improvement on the arrangements under the old Northern Ireland Protocol, removing unnecessary checks and paperwork, lifting the bans on a range of plants and products, and giving the Northern Ireland Assembly greater democratic powers over new EU legislation through the Stormont Brake.

This Government is committed to implementing the Framework in good faith and taking all steps necessary to protect the UK internal market.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Communities Minister on the termination of the JobStart programme for 16-25 year olds in Northern Ireland.

I have not had any discussions with the Northern Ireland Communities Minister regarding the JobStart scheme. The Northern Ireland Department for the Communities is responsible for the delivery of the scheme which has received £15 million New Deal for Northern Ireland funding from the UK Government to cover the period April 2023 to March 2025.

The JobStart application portal closed on 30 June 2024 as planned. All participants currently on the scheme will be able to complete their JobStart opportunity.

Investment in skills and employment is a devolved matter and any decision on future funding for the JobStart scheme is a matter for the Northern Ireland Executive.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Assembly on administration of Apprenticeship Levy funds.

The Northern Ireland Executive receives its share of funding from the Apprenticeship Levy through the Block Grant. Policy on apprenticeships is devolved to the Northern Ireland Executive and it is up to the Executive to decide how to utilise this funding.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will make it his policy to establish a new official local flag for Northern Ireland.

The Union Flag is the only official flag of Northern Ireland. The regulatory framework for official flag flying in Northern Ireland is determined by the Flags Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 and The Flags (Northern Ireland) Order 2000. These regulations make provision for the flying of flags on NI government buildings and courthouses only. There are no plans to further review or amend how this legislation operates in Northern Ireland.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will make it his policy to publish monthly figures on the number of reviews opened by the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery following requests from (a) his Department, (b) families and (c) others, including whether the reviews relate to (i) deaths and (ii) harmful conduct.

The Commission is independent of Government. As such, it would not be appropriate for the Government to publish information about its operational activities. This is a matter for the commission, which is, I know, committed to openness in its work.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
23rd Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions the Prime Minister's Office have had with (a) HM Treasury and (b) the Northern Ireland Office on the Casement Stadium redevelopment.

The Prime Minister’s Office is in frequent contact with departments across government on a whole range of issues to ensure the effective delivery of government policy, as has been the case under successive administrations.

The UK Government is committed to ensuring that EURO 2028 benefits the whole of the United Kingdom. That is why we are working as quickly as possible with all the partners involved in the Casement Park project to assess the options available.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to figure 19.6 of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office’s annual report 2022, published on 26 March 2024, if he will hold discussions with the Department of Justice in Northern Ireland on the potential merits of launching a public inquiry on the alleged surveillance of journalists in Northern Ireland.

Figure 19.6 of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office’s annual report 2022 refers to statistics for communications data authorisations involving members of a sensitive profession between 2018 and 2022. These are statistics for the whole of the UK, not specific to Northern Ireland.

Oversight of the use of Investigatory Powers is provided by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office who ensure that such use is necessary and proportionate, and used in accordance with the law.

There are ongoing Investigatory Powers Tribunal proceedings in relation to the alleged surveillance of journalists in Northern Ireland. As such it would be inappropriate to comment further or to consider other routes of investigation until those proceedings have concluded.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
23rd Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on water charges in Northern Ireland.

I have discussed with the First and deputy First Minister the urgent need to transform how public services are funded and delivered in Northern Ireland.

It is for the Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly to make decisions on how to sustainably fund public services in Northern Ireland within its Budget and to raise revenue to support this. This Government is committed to supporting the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure better outcomes for citizens.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when he plans to reply to the correspondence from the hon. Member for Brentwood and Ongar of 18 July 2024 on the Court of Appeal judgment in the case of Geraldine Finucane v Secretary of State for Northern Ireland of 11 July 2024.

I responded to the correspondence from the hon. Member for Brentwood and Ongar on 25 July 2024.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to hold further public inquiries into Troubles-related terrorist activity in Northern Ireland; and if so, what criteria they use to determine which incidents should be prioritised.

The decision to establish a public inquiry must always be taken with full consideration of the particular factors of each case. The Government will continue to consider the merits of establishing a public inquiry on a case-by-case basis, noting that it is for the Government to determine how to effectively discharge its procedural obligations under Article 2 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Ireland about its legal action against them concerning the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

Since the election, the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland have met with the Irish Taoiseach and Tanáiste, respectively, and underlined the Government’s commitment to repeal and replace the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

We will continue to engage closely with the Irish Government with a view to finding a practical way forward. The participation of both the UK and Irish governments in a legacy process is important if we are to achieve better outcomes for victims and survivors. Of course, we hope that such a process will lead to the withdrawal of the interstate case, though that is a matter for the Irish Government.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many staff are employed in his Department.

As at 30 June 2024, the Northern Ireland Office employs 172 staff.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many Irish citizens are employed in his Department.

The Northern Ireland Office does not hold data on citizenship held by staff. As per the terms of the 1998 Agreement, this Government recognises the right of all people of Northern Ireland to identify themselves and be accepted as Irish or British, or both, according to preference.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many Irish citizens are employed as ministerial advisers in his Department.

The Northern Ireland Office does not hold data on citizenship held by staff. As per the terms of the 1998 Agreement, this Government recognises the right of all people of Northern Ireland to identify themselves and be accepted as Irish or British, or both, according to preference.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many ministerial advisers are employed in his Department.

As of 24 July 2024, the Northern Ireland Office employs one ministerial Special Advisor.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the Safeguarding the Union Command Paper (CP 1021), published on 31 January; and whether they will be implementing all of the measures outlined in it.

The Government is committed to implementing the Windsor Framework in good faith and to taking all necessary steps to protect the UK internal market.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he is taking steps to facilitate the construction of Casement Park.

The UK Government is committed to ensuring that EURO 2028 benefits the whole of the United Kingdom. That is why we are working as quickly as possible with all the partners involved in the Casement Park project to assess the options available.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he has had discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the adequacy of the level of funding from the UK Government for the redevelopment of Casement Park.

The UK Government is committed to ensuring that EURO 2028 benefits the whole of the United Kingdom. That is why we are working as quickly as possible with all the partners involved in the Casement Park project to assess the options available.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer on funding for the redevelopment of Casement Park.

The UK Government is committed to ensuring that EURO 2028 benefits the whole of the United Kingdom. That is why we are working as quickly as possible with all the partners involved in the Casement Park project to assess the options available.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to The Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, what functions he exercises direction and control over; and if he will publish the directions issued under those regulations.

The Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations are intended to assist with the delivery of the arrangements adopted between the UK and EU as set out in the Windsor Framework and, more specifically, the operation of arrangements under the Windsor Framework concerning the movement of goods between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Government does not routinely publish details of discussions with officials working under its direction, whether under the terms of these regulations or otherwise.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
17th Jul 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to the policy paper entitled Safeguarding the Union, published on 31 January 2024, whether he plans to implement the policies set out in that paper.

The Government is committed to implementing the Windsor Framework in good faith and to taking all necessary steps to protect the UK internal market.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st May 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they plan to publish directions made under the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024.

Government decisions, including those exercised under the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations, are subject to scrutiny by Parliament. The Government does not routinely publish details of the engagement with officials working under its direction, whether under the terms of those regulations or otherwise.

20th May 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether any ministerial redundancy payments have been repaid to their Department since 2019.

No ministerial redundancy payments have been repaid to the Department since 2019.

The Provision of severance payments for Ministers is set out in legislation. Details of the severance payments made to ministers when leaving office are published in departments’ annual reports and accounts.

Similarly, the provision of severance payments for special advisers is set out in the Model Contract, which is available on gov.uk, including provisions for repayment of severance if reappointed. The cost of severance payments made to special advisers across government is published annually by the Cabinet Office.

20th May 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what progress he has made on the establishment of the Castelreagh Foundation.

I am currently considering the next steps in support of our commitments to the Castlereagh Foundation following the publication of the Safeguarding the Union Command Paper.

15th May 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to the Answer of 19 July 2023 to Question 194133 on Golf: Portrush, whether he is taking steps with the Northern Ireland Executive to help increase economic opportunities during the Open Championship in Royal Portrush in 2025.

The Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025 is an outstanding opportunity to showcase Northern Ireland’s exceptional tourism offering, stunning scenery and state-of-the-art golfing facilities. These are just a few of the many reasons that Northern Ireland is a great place to live, work and invest.

Economic growth, sport and tourism are all devolved to the Northern Ireland Executive. The Secretary of State, Lord Caine and I continue to work closely with the Ministers for the Economy and Communities to ensure that Northern Ireland is well placed to maximise the plethora of opportunities that the Championship, and other sporting spectacles, will bring to Northern Ireland’s hospitality and tourism sectors.

9th May 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have had any discussions with the government of the Republic of Ireland regarding whether it plans to send Garda to the border between the Republic of Ireland and the UK.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and the Tánaiste last spoke about this issue on 1 May, and the Tánaiste confirmed there would be no deployment of officers from An Garda Síochána to the Northern Ireland/Ireland border.

During this exchange, both UK and Irish Governments confirmed their commitment to the Common Travel Area and are focused on securing its external border.

7th May 2024
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps his Department is taking to ensure legal representation is made available to police veterans called to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.

Policing in Northern Ireland is a devolved matter but we understand PSNI will be providing legal support to retired police officers called to give evidence to the Omagh Bombing Inquiry.


9th May 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made any representations to the government of the Republic of Ireland to encourage them to hold a public inquiry into the Omagh Bombing.

We all remember vividly where we were when we heard the news of that awful atrocity in August 1998, and I pay tribute to Michael Gallagher and the other Omagh families who have pursued their case with great dignity and tenacity.

The Government is doing everything in its power to ensure that the Omagh Bombing Inquiry, under the expert guidance of Lord Turnbull, provides answers. Along with the significant powers provided to it under the Inquiries Act 2005, the Inquiry will need the cooperation of Irish agencies to be as effective as possible.

I raised this directly with the Irish Foreign Minister and Tánaiste at the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference on Monday 29 April, and I am pleased that he committed to full Irish Government co-operation with the Omagh bombing inquiry. The Government’s focus is on ensuring that the inquiry has every chance of success, and the Irish Government’s role in that is crucial.

At the last two British-Irish Intergovernmental Conferences, the Secretary of State and I pressed the Irish Government to cooperate fully with both the Omagh inquiry and the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery to provide information for victims and families who desire it. The Secretary of State also wrote to the Tánaiste in January, challenging the Irish Government’s own approach to addressing legacy issues, including the number of Troubles-related prosecutions brought in Ireland since April 1998.

9th May 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made any representations to the government of the Republic of Ireland about (1) recognising any historic role it may have had in the forming, funding and training of the Provisional Irish Republican Army, and (2) how it may have dealt with terrorist activity during the Troubles.

It is clear that the Irish Government has legitimate questions to answer regarding its record of dealing with legacy matters in its own jurisdiction. The coroner in the Kingsmill Inquest found, “the border between Northern Ireland and Ireland was “exploited by terrorists” and allowed for “… planning, training, organisation, weapons storage and retreat at a safe physical and legal distance from the authorities that would be faced with investigating terrorist acts in Northern Ireland”.

It is clear that, for many families, effective information recovery will also require the cooperation of the Irish Government and its agencies. The Government continues to encourage the Irish Government to cooperate with the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation & Information Recovery to help facilitate the provision of information to families who request it, including most recently at the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference on 29 April 2024.

9th May 2024
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they have made any representations to the government of the Republic of Ireland concerning the coroner’s findings on the 1976 shooting in Kingsmill.

The Kingsmill massacre is an appalling example of the pain and suffering inflicted by the Provisional IRA during the Troubles. The families have fought for many decades to get information and accountability from those responsible. The Government hopes that the findings delivered by the coroner have brought some form of comfort to the families affected.

The coroner, in his findings, expressed gratitude for the assistance the inquest received from the Irish authorities. It is the Government’s view, however, that such cooperation should not be limited to high-profile cases. It is disappointing that the Irish Government has, to date, declined to commit to cooperating with the new Independent Commission for Reconciliation & Information Recovery to help facilitate the provision of information to families who request it. The Government continues to encourage the Irish Government to cooperate with the ICRIR, just as it has done in the Kingsmill inquest and Operation Denton.

I made these points directly to the Irish Government at the most recent meeting of the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference on 29 April.