Oral Answers to Questions

Craig Whittaker Excerpts

Wednesday 26th October 2016 Commons Chamber

[Kris Hopkins]

I agree that that act 42 years ago was appalling, and offer my sympathies to the families of those who were lost. There is a continuing dialogue with the Irish Government and their Foreign Minister. We will continue that and I am quite happy to have discussions with the hon. Gentleman if he wants further information about the progress we are making.

[Craig Whittaker (Calder Valley) (Con)]

4. What recent discussions he has had with the Government of the Republic of Ireland on the UK’s decision to leave the EU.

[Jeff Smith (Manchester, Withington) (Lab)]

6. What discussions he has had with the Government of the Republic of Ireland on the Government’s negotiations on the UK leaving the EU.

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

I have met and will continue to meet counterparts in the Irish Government as we work through the challenges ahead. The UK-Irish relationship has never been stronger. It is a unique relationship, and in the coming months we will strengthen co-operation to help to secure the best outcome from the EU negotiations.

[Craig Whittaker]

I think my right hon. Friend will agree that both the common travel area and the open border between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland have served us well for decades. Will he do everything he can to ensure those arrangements continue and that there is no establishment of hard borders within the island of Ireland or within the UK?

[James Brokenshire]

I agree with my hon. Friend that the common travel area has served us well over many years; indeed, we were party to it before we joined the European Union. It is a priority that we do not see a return to the borders of the past.