Oral Answers to Questions

Peter Grant Excerpts

Wednesday 21st June 2023 Commons Chamber

[Mr Baker]

We are in frequent conversation with the vice-chancellors. The hon. Gentleman will remember that we have taken a power to commission advice and to consult, and he will know that there is a need to look at revenue raising. All those things come together and point in a direction on which I hope, in the end, there will be consensus: to ensure that the excellent higher education sector in Northern Ireland continues to be a beacon of great education for the world.

[Peter Grant (Glenrothes) (SNP)]

6. What recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of the budget for public services in Northern Ireland.

[John Mc Nally (Falkirk) (SNP)]

8. What recent assessment he has made of the adequacy of the budget for public services in Northern Ireland.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Chris Heaton-Harris)]

For many years, the UK Government have recognised the unique challenges that Northern Ireland faces. We have provided around £7 billion in additional funding to Northern Ireland since 2014, on top of the Barnett-based block grant. Northern Ireland Executive spending per person is around 20% higher than the equivalent UK Government spending in the rest of the United Kingdom.

[Peter Grant]

A recent study has showed that 90% of people in Northern Ireland are having to cut back on their spending. The cost of living crisis means that a third are cutting back a lot on basics such as food, fuel and housing. Against that background, the Secretary of State’s Government are imposing real-terms budget cuts across almost the whole public sector in Northern Ireland. At the time of a cost of living crisis, are his budget cuts making the crisis better or worse?