Asked by: Alison Hume (Labour - Scarborough and Whitby)
Question to the Northern Ireland Office:
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on the potential merits of introducing bespoke fishing visas for seasonal scampi fishers in Northern Ireland.
Answered by Hilary Benn - Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
The Government is committed to the long-term prosperity and sustainability of UK fishing, and the Northern Ireland fishing industry is a vital part of this. Earlier this year I visited Kilkeel with Minister Andrew Muir, where I discussed with representatives from the fishing industry a number of issues including the current visa regime. In light of the representations I have received around labour shortages, I have raised this matter with the Home Secretary, and Minister Tapp met with relevant stakeholders on Monday 20 April.
Asked by: Robbie Moore (Conservative - Keighley and Ilkley)
Question to the Northern Ireland Office:
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of Government policies on the economy in Northern Ireland.
Answered by Hilary Benn - Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland’s economy is one of the strongest in the UK and is a growing leader in Fintech, Cybersecurity and advanced manufacturing.
This Government is providing support through a record funding settlement, and significant investment in the four City and Growth Deals, £150 million for a new Enhanced Investment Zone, and new trade agreements that will create jobs and opportunities, including with the European Union.
Report May. 27 2026
Committee: Northern Ireland Affairs Committee (Department: Northern Ireland Office)May. 26 2026
Source Page: UK Government releases a further £102.6 million for reform of NI public servicesMay. 22 2026
Source Page: NIO Register of Interests as at 31 March 2026May. 22 2026
Source Page: NIO Register of Interests as at 31 March 2026