Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Alec Shelbrooke and James Brokenshire

Wednesday 20th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[Sir Henry Bellingham (North West Norfolk) (Con)]

8. What steps the Government are taking to reduce cross-border crime in Northern Ireland.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (James Brokenshire)]

The joint agency task force, created under the “Fresh Start” agreement, is tackling cross-border crime in Northern Ireland. The task force has completed a strategic assessment to identify priorities and is co-ordinating joint law enforcement operations against the criminals involved.

[Alec Shelbrooke]

I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for welcoming the report of the joint agency task force. Does he welcome the success of the joint operations already carried out?

[James Brokenshire]

Yes, I certainly do. It is important that we maintain the focus on combating organised crime and on responding implacably to paramilitarism. I do recognise the successes to date.