Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Karl McCartney and Theresa Villiers

Wednesday 2nd March 2016 Commons Chamber

[Karl MᶜCartney (Lincoln) (Con)]

4. What recent discussions she has had with Ministers of the Northern Ireland Executive on economic development in Northern Ireland.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mrs Theresa Villiers)]

I hold regular discussions with Executive and Government Ministers on a range of economic issues. Our long-term economic plan continues to deliver for Northern Ireland: the economy is growing, there are 46,000 more people in employment today than in 2010 and wages are up by more than 5% over the year.

[Karl MᶜCartney]

I welcome the recent news that 10,300 fewer people in Northern Ireland were claiming jobseeker’s allowance last month than in January 2015. Does my right hon. Friend agree that that is a clear indication that the economic pact is working?

[Mrs Villiers]

The economic pact that was signed between the Executive and the Government means that we are working more closely than ever before to rebalance the Northern Ireland economy and boost jobs. Unemployment is down by more than 40% from its peak in February 2013 and progress is being made towards implementing the devolution of corporation tax, which shows that working together between our two Administrations is effective in delivering for Northern Ireland.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Karl McCartney and Theresa Villiers

Wednesday 27th November 2013 Commons Chamber

[Karl MᶜCartney (Lincoln) (Con)]

3. What recent discussions she has had with the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland on policing and security issues.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mrs Theresa Villiers)]

I hold regular meetings with the Chief Constable of the PSNI, and we speak frequently by phone. We discuss a range of subjects, including police resourcing and the security situation in Northern Ireland.

[Karl MᶜCartney]

My right hon. Friend will be aware that so-called punishment attacks continue to be carried out in Northern Ireland by both loyalist and republican groups. Will she condemn these acts of barbarism and give the House an indication of what the PSNI is doing to counter those criminals who prey on communities across parts of Northern Ireland?

[Mrs Villiers]

I completely agree with my hon. Friend’s condemnation of these brutal attacks. We have seen a number of horrific attacks along these lines: the murder of Kevin Kearney, the attack on Jemma McGrath and, distressingly, an attack on a 15-year-old boy in recent weeks. These vigilante attacks are cowardly, ruthless and callous, and they are utterly unacceptable. I know that the PSNI is doing all it can to bring those responsible to justice.