Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Andrew Selous and Theresa Villiers

Wednesday 16th July 2014 Commons Chamber

[Andrew Selous (South West Bedfordshire) (Con)]

2. What recent assessment she has made of the outlook for the Northern Ireland economy.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mrs Theresa Villiers)]

Figures released this morning show that the claimant count fell by 900 in June, the 18th consecutive month it has fallen in Northern Ireland. Economic commentators have forecast growth of 2.8% this year—more than many major economies around the world. The Government’s long-term economic plan is working in Northern Ireland.

[Andrew Selous]

Does the Secretary of State agree that in order to attract further inward investment to Northern Ireland, we need to project an image to the world of peace and stability? In that vein, does she further agree that the recent peaceful passing of the twelfth of July celebrations gives us hope for the future and is something we can build on?

[Mrs Villiers]

I agree with my hon. Friend. The fact that there was a peaceful twelfth of July is an important step forward for Northern Ireland. It has been rare over recent decades that one can say that the twelfth of July weekend has been entirely peaceful. I commend the efforts made by Unionist leaders from a range of parties and the Orange Order—and, indeed, by nationalists as well—to keep the situation calm, despite the distress and upset caused by the Parades Commission determination.