Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the views of victims’ groups and families on the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill.

The Government has always been clear that the purpose of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy & Reconciliation) Bill is to deliver better outcomes for those most affected by the Troubles, including victims and their families, providing more information to families in a more timely manner than through the existing mechanisms.

The Government has always acknowledged the concerns expressed by interested parties about the legislation and been consistent in its commitment to strengthen the Bill in order to alleviate many such concerns. That is why, ahead of the Report Stage in the House of Lords, we tabled amendments relating to the conduct of reviews, compliance with international obligations, the independence of the Commission, and strengthening the provisions regarding conditional immunity.

The Government recognises that the Bill remains challenging for many, but continues to believe that it represents the best way forward for those most affected by the Troubles, and to help Northern Ireland look forward.