Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Chloe Smith and Jeffrey M Donaldson

Wednesday 13th September 2017 Commons Chamber

[Chloe Smith]

Yes—in short, I certainly can. Co-operation with the Irish authorities is already strong. We wish to see that continue. If I may, I will take this opportunity to commend the security services and police on both sides of the border for all that they do to keep individuals safe.

[Sir Jeffrey M. Donaldson (Lagan Valley) (DUP)]

The Minister will be aware of the security assessment that the New IRA represents a very real and present threat to security. What discussions have the Government had with their Irish counterparts about that organisation?

[Chloe Smith]

Obviously, it is not possible to comment on specific assessments and security matters at this moment, but as I said in my previous response, co-operation is very strong across all security matters. We wish to see it continue that way in order to keep people on both sides of the border safe not only from the scourge of terrorism, but from cross-border crime where that is relevant, too.