Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Northern Ireland Office

Oral Answers to Questions

David Mowat Excerpts
Wednesday 20th April 2016

(8 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Theresa Villiers Portrait Mrs Villiers
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The Government are certainly doing all they can to ensure that the UK, including Northern Ireland, is one of the most competitive places in the world to do business, which is one reason why we have reduced corporation tax. We are bearing down on unnecessary regulation. I will certainly look into the matters the hon. Gentleman raises in relation to the industry.

David Mowat Portrait David Mowat (Warrington South) (Con)
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6. What assessment her Department has made of the role of the voluntary sector in dealing with the legacy of the past.

Theresa Villiers Portrait The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mrs Theresa Villiers)
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In working to build consensus for the Stormont House agreement institutions on the past, I have held a number of very constructive meetings with voluntary groups who support and represent victims, as well as with victims themselves.

David Mowat Portrait David Mowat
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The Secretary of State will be aware of the reconciliation work performed by the Peace Centre, which is based in Warrington. Support is given to those on both sides of the Irish sea affected by terrorism, although the majority of the funding is provided by the Irish, not the UK, Government. Will the Secretary of State agree to meet me and members of the Foundation for Peace to discuss whether we can do more on this issue?

Theresa Villiers Portrait Mrs Villiers
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I would be very happy to do that. I enjoyed my visit to the Peace Centre, and I have the highest regard for the work done by the centre and its various programmes to support the victims of Northern Ireland terrorism and other victims.