(5 years, 8 months ago)
Commons ChamberThere is always a DUP contest between seniority and youth. On this occasion, I call Mr David Simpson.
Thank you, Mr Speaker.
With all the discussions that the Secretary of State has had with the various parties, I am sure she has come to the conclusion that the only party that is holding progress back is Sinn Féin. We in this part of the House would form a Government in the morning.
(6 years, 9 months ago)
Commons ChamberOrder. There is a considerable hubbub in the Chamber, which is arguably discourteous to the people of Northern Ireland and certainly unfair on Members from Northern Irish constituencies. Let us have a respectful hearing for Mr David Simpson.
The Secretary of State will be aware of the European health card system. Does she envisage that system continuing when we leave the European Union, or will there be some other arrangement?
(8 years, 1 month ago)
Commons ChamberOrder. We are discussing matters appertaining to Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland Members must be heard.
I am sure that the Secretary of State would agree that the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of the businesses in Northern Ireland, especially the small and medium-sized enterprises, are second to none, and that whatever they face with Brexit, they are up for the challenge.
(9 years ago)
Commons ChamberOrder. I understand the sense of anticipation in the Chamber at this time on a Wednesday, but I point out that we are talking about the legacy of Northern Ireland’s past. Out of respect for the people of Northern Ireland, if for no other reason, a seemly atmosphere would be appreciated. Let us hear Mr David Simpson and the Minister’s reply.
I am sure the Secretary of State will agree that, whatever settlement is agreed on the legacy of Northern Ireland, the victims are paramount in this, as has already been mentioned. Does she agree that no one, but no one, should be allowed to rewrite the history of Northern Ireland when we make that settlement?
(9 years, 1 month ago)
Commons ChamberNotably in the company of the hon. Member for Lichfield (Michael Fabricant).
Will the Minister give the House some details of what discussions he has had with supermarkets in relation to food waste, and will he welcome the announcement by KFC who have done a deal with the Salvation Army to help hand out food so it is not wasted?
(10 years, 1 month ago)
Commons ChamberMay I just gently point out to the House that we have a lot of questions to get through and we need to speed up?
2. What the geographical remit will be of the recently announced panel to discuss parading disputes in Northern Ireland.
(11 years, 9 months ago)
Commons ChamberOrder. The hon. Gentleman is even more popular than he knew. Let us hear from him.
Thank you, Mr Speaker. What consideration has the Secretary of State given to bringing forward an amendment to the Northern Ireland Bill to remove the Parades Commission, which is seen by many as part of the problem and not the solution?
Was the hon. Gentleman in the Chamber at the start of the statement? He was. We must hear him. I call Mr David Simpson.
Further to a previous question, if a school teacher who teaches religious education believes that the Bible teaches that this act is wrong and tells her pupils that, will she be protected?
(12 years, 7 months ago)
Commons ChamberAlthough it is well and good to encourage the creative industries in Northern Ireland to create short-term employment on some occasions, what can the Minister do to encourage the small to medium-sized companies in Northern Ireland that are currently on their knees? [Interruption.]
Order. The House must calm down. It is difficult even for the Minister to hear the question. Let us hear the reply.
(12 years, 9 months ago)
Commons ChamberOrder. There are far too many noisy private conversations taking place in the Chamber. As a matter of courtesy to the people of Northern Ireland, it would be good to have a bit of hush.
I am sure the Minister will agree that inward investment into Northern Ireland is always welcome, but we must not forget small indigenous businesses that have been there for many years. [Interruption.] Will he join me in welcoming the £30-million investment by the Asda group in one site in my constituency, which is in an area that has not had investment for 35 years? [Interruption.]
Order. It would be good if we could hear the reply. The House must come to order.