Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery

Baroness Suttie Excerpts

Wednesday 21st May 2025 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

The noble Baroness raises a really important point that I know is of huge concern to the veterans community, both those who served in Operation Banner and more broadly. With regard to the specifics of the inquest, the veterans involved in the Clonoe inquest and the Secretary of State for Defence have applied for a judicial review of the coroner’s verdict and findings, which do not properly reflect the context of the incident nor the very difficult circumstances in which members of the Armed Forces served in Northern Ireland. The MoD is also funding the veterans in question to seek the judicial review and providing them with welfare support.

[Baroness Suttie (LD)]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that trust is an essential element in the process of dealing with the past in Northern Ireland, and does she recognise that the current lack of legal certainty regarding the repeal of the legacy Act is adding to a lack of trust? Will she confirm therefore that it is still the Government’s intention to bring forward new primary legislation on legacy issues during this parliamentary Session?

[Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent (Lab)]

The noble Baroness is absolutely right. Everything in the delivery of the Belfast/Good Friday agreement and the ongoing peace in Northern Ireland is about trust and bringing people together. With regards to forthcoming legislation, we were clear in our manifesto, and we have been clear by having it referenced in the King’s Speech. This Government are committed to bringing forward the timing of the legislation. However, noble Lords will appreciate that, as my Chief Whip is sitting two feet away from me, I am going to confirm: when parliamentary time allows.