UK: System of Government

Debate between Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen and Lord Kilclooney

Tuesday 21st January 2020 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen]

I thank the noble and learned Lord for his question. The Government have no plans to go down the federal route at the moment. We are working to strengthen the union to ensure that the institutions and powers of the UK are used in a way that benefits people in every part of the country. I think we are showing that in the way we are investing in all four of our nations equally to make sure that everybody has the same opportunities.

[Lord Kilclooney (CB)]

My Lords, is the Minister aware that in the recent general election, the political party that suffered the greatest loss of votes and percentage of votes in Northern Ireland was Sinn Féin, and that it is incorrect to say that there is a growing demand for a united Ireland in Northern Ireland?

[Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen]

Under the “new decade, new approach” agreement, the UK will provide the restored Northern Ireland Executive with a £2 billion financial package that delivers for the citizens of Northern Ireland. That is how we are showing our determination to ensure that Northern Ireland is not left behind, and our awareness of its problems.

Franchise: British Citizens Abroad

Debate between Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen and Lord Kilclooney

Thursday 20th October 2016 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen]

We have set up consultations and are hoping to get responses from everybody who might be involved in this. That will no doubt be one of the things that comes up.

[Lord Kilclooney (CB)]

My Lords, as Irish citizens in the United Kingdom have exactly the same electoral rights as British citizens, will the removal of the 15-year ban apply to Irish citizens abroad as well as British citizens?

[Baroness Chisholm of Owlpen]

My Lords, the noble Lord has slightly got me on that one. I will have to write to him.