Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, whether the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland played a role in the post-election negotiations with the Democratic Unionist Party.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has been focused on his role in representing the UK Government to restore inclusive power-sharing government. He has been engaging intensively with the parties, communities and businesses on the ground since these talks began, and that will continue in the weeks ahead. The Chief Whip and First Secretary of State have led on discussions with DUP on confidence and supply arrangements.