Oral Answers to Questions

Lord Bellingham Excerpts

Wednesday 20th July 2016 Commons Chamber

[Alec Shelbrooke (Elmet and Rothwell) (Con)]

3. What steps the Government are taking to reduce cross-border crime in Northern Ireland.

[Sir Henry Bellingham (North West Norfolk) (Con)]

8. What steps the Government are taking to reduce cross-border crime in Northern Ireland.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (James Brokenshire)]

The joint agency task force, created under the “Fresh Start” agreement, is tackling cross-border crime in Northern Ireland. The task force has completed a strategic assessment to identify priorities and is co-ordinating joint law enforcement operations against the criminals involved.

[James Brokenshire]

Yes, I certainly do. It is important that we maintain the focus on combating organised crime and on responding implacably to paramilitarism. I do recognise the successes to date.

[Sir Henry Bellingham]

I, too, congratulate the Secretary of State on his appointment. I am sure his previous experience as Security Minister will stand him in good stead. Does he agree that in this pending Brexit world, closer co-operation between the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Garda Siochana is more important than ever? What plans does he have to make that happen?

[James Brokenshire]

I entirely endorse my hon. Friend’s comments on the need for good cross-border working relationships between the PSNI and Garda Siochana. I have already had a conversation with Frances Fitzgerald, the Irish Justice Minister, to underline that. We have very good relationships and I want to see them continue.