Oral Answers to Questions

Alan Gemmell Excerpts

Wednesday 15th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Chris Vince (Harlow) (Lab/Co-op)]

5. What steps his Department is taking to help grow the economy in Northern Ireland.

[Alan Gemmell (Central Ayrshire) (Lab)]

7. What steps his Department is taking to help grow the economy in Northern Ireland.

--- Later in debate ---

[Hilary Benn]

It certainly does. My hon. Friend alludes to a number of the great strengths of the Northern Ireland economy. The deal with Harland and Wolff, which I mentioned earlier, is another sign of the Government’s commitment. Of course, the Northern Ireland economy has access to both the EU and the UK markets.

[Alan Gemmell]

Does the Secretary of State share my optimism that UK Government funding for all four of Northern Ireland’s city and growth deals, confirmed in the autumn, provides a great basis for all of Northern Ireland to generate growth and opportunity?

[Hilary Benn]

I certainly do, and I have been greatly impressed by the commitment of those involved in developing the growth deals to investing in boosting economic growth in their areas.