Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jamie Stone and Hilary Benn

Wednesday 26th February 2025 Commons Chamber

[Hilary Benn]

I do agree. He has great expertise and knowledge, and I am sure that it will be used for the benefit of people in Northern Ireland, particularly patients waiting for appointments.

[Jamie Stone (Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross) (LD)]

My daughter lives in Donegal. When her two little boys were born, she had the choice of them being born in Derry or Sligo—on either side of the border. The Republic of Ireland has introduced an initiative called shared island. That is not a united Ireland, but it works in improving services. Will the Government look at its success, and consider how Scotland might work in a similar way to Northern Ireland, for the benefit of services?

[Hilary Benn]

As I understand it, there is a long-established arrangement under which people can move from one side of the border to the other to seek care, particularly in Donegal and Derry/Londonderry. Things would be slightly different in Scotland, for physical reasons, but once again, I am sure that all opportunities that can be taken to help people get the care they need would be welcomed.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Jamie Stone and Hilary Benn

Wednesday 15th January 2025 Commons Chamber

[Hilary Benn]

I do indeed think that the Belfast economic corridor is a really good thing. We support it, and I look forward to seeing it develop and succeed.

[Jamie Stone (Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross) (LD)]

Agriculture is really important to the economy of Northern Ireland. In Scotland, we breed excellent bulls, but it is very hard to sell them and get them into Northern Ireland because of the regulations and red tape, and vice versa for Irish bulls coming to Scotland. Will the Secretary of State see if we can make it easier for farmers on both sides?

[Hilary Benn]

I will look into the matter that the hon. Gentleman raises and I will come back to him.