Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Michelle Donelan and Shailesh Vara

Wednesday 21st March 2018 Commons Chamber

[Alex Chalk (Cheltenham) (Con)]

8. What recent discussions she has had with Northern Ireland political parties on the UK leaving the EU.

[The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr Shailesh Vara)]

The Secretary of State and I have regular conversations with the Northern Ireland political parties on a range of issues. This includes matters relating to the UK’s departure from the European Union. As we have said repeatedly, these conversations are no replacement for a fully functioning, locally elected and democratically accountable Executive. That is what the people of Northern Ireland need, and that is what we are focused on.

[Michelle Donelan]

Does my hon. Friend agree that as we leave the EU, it is essential that current levels of security and co-operation between the UK and Ireland, which are so important in the fight against terrorism, are maintained and enhanced?