Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Ministry of Defence

Oral Answers to Questions

Jim Shannon Excerpts
Monday 7th November 2016

(8 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton Portrait Mark Lancaster
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Of course we recognise that the covenant is very much a partnership between Government, the third sector and the corporate world, which is why I was delighted to see that we recently passed 1,200 signatures on the corporate covenant.

Jim Shannon Portrait Jim Shannon (Strangford) (DUP)
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What discussions has the Minister had with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to see the armed forces covenant enforced in Northern Ireland? What steps has his Department taken in the interim to work with veterans’ services in Northern Ireland until the scheme is fully implemented?

Lord Lancaster of Kimbolton Portrait Mark Lancaster
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Of course, we have unique challenges in Northern Ireland, but I am pleased to report that we estimate that 93% of covenant issues are being enforced in Northern Ireland. Clearly, we need to do better, and that is going to be my focus for the year.