Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government how the Northern Ireland Enhanced Investment Zone will operate, which government department has responsibility for it, and how much funding it has been allocated to date.

At Autumm Budget the government confirmed the continuation of the Investment Zones programme across the UK, which will promote investment opportunities, create additional jobs, and drive economic growth. This includes £150m, available over 10 years, for the delivery of the Enhanced Investment Zone in Northern Ireland.

In consultation with relevant government Departments, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is currently working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Executive to co-develop proposals for the design and delivery of the Enhanced Investment Zone. The Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland is acting as the lead Department for the Executive on Enhanced Investment Zone development, working with a range of partners across Northern Ireland.