Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Bob Blackman and Kris Hopkins

Wednesday 7th December 2016 Commons Chamber

[Kris Hopkins]

I do not recognise the comments that have just been made. We have an extremely good relationship with the Irish Government. We will continue that dialogue and work with them.

[Bob Blackman (Harrow East) (Con)]

6. What steps he is taking to consult businesses in Northern Ireland on strengthening the Northern Ireland economy.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Kris Hopkins)]

The Secretary of State has established a business advisory group to help understand the economic priorities of the Northern Ireland business community. A series of sectoral meetings have already been held with key industrial sectors, including the agricultural food sector, manufacturing and the creative industries.

[Bob Blackman]

I thank my hon. Friend for that answer. What impact will the Government’s industrial strategy have in revamping the private sector in Northern Ireland, and what discussions is he having with the Executive on this topic?

[Kris Hopkins]

It is important to recognise the huge contribution—some £23 billion—that is incorporated in the industrial strategy, and also to recognise the movement and growth in private sector business, with some 14,410 jobs created in the last year alone.