Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment he has made of the effect on public appointments in Northern Ireland of not having a First Minister and Deputy First Minister acting jointly to make such appointments; and if he will make a statement.

The responsibility for making public appointments to statutory bodies within Northern Ireland is determined by the founding legislation of each individual body. Where that responsibility lies with Northern Ireland Ministers and Departments, it remains a devolved responsibility.