Northern Ireland Troubles: Legacy and Reconciliation

Debate between Andy McDonald and Judith Cummins

Wednesday 21st January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Andy McDonald]

I thank the hon. Member for that intervention. There is an obligation on the Government under section 4 of the Human Rights Act: where they have been told by a court that legislation is incompatible with a convention right, they are duty-bound to remove that incompatibility. That is exactly what is being done here. [Interruption.] The hon. Member chunters from a sedentary position, but that is the legal position.

The remedial order is a positive correction, but it is only a first step. Justice delayed has already cost families decades. Justice diluted will cost confidence altogether. If we want reconciliation rooted in truth, the law must apply equally to all, and independent investigations must be fully restored.

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Judith Cummins)]

I call the Liberal Democrat spokesperson.