Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Northern Ireland Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Philip Hollobone Excerpts
Wednesday 4th July 2012

(12 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Owen Paterson Portrait Mr Paterson
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I think the right hon. Gentleman underestimates the fact that the issue is devolved, and we are working closely with the devolved Minister with responsibility in this area and other Ministers in the Executive on the arrangements which will be debated shortly as the Bill is taken through the Assembly. It is very important that local circumstances are taken into account so that the Bill that emerges from the Assembly suits the circumstances in Northern Ireland.

Philip Hollobone Portrait Mr Philip Hollobone (Kettering) (Con)
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When does my right hon. Friend expect the Welfare Reform Bill to be introduced by the Executive?

Owen Paterson Portrait Mr Paterson
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I am in regular contact with Nelson McCausland, the relevant Minister, and he is optimistic that he will stick to the schedule, which will enable Northern Ireland to come on stream, as planned, with the Department for Work and Pensions here.