Northern Ireland Office

We ensure the smooth working of the devolution settlement in Northern Ireland.



Secretary of State

 Portrait

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland

 Portrait

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Lords Spokesperson (Northern Ireland Office)

Shadow Ministers / Spokeperson
Liberal Democrat
Baroness Suttie (LD - Life peer)
Liberal Democrat Lords Spokesperson (Northern Ireland)

Conservative
Alex Burghart (Con - Brentwood and Ongar)
Shadow Secretary of State for Northern Ireland

Liberal Democrat
Al Pinkerton (LD - Surrey Heath)
Liberal Democrat Spokesperson (Northern Ireland)
Junior Shadow Ministers / Deputy Spokesperson
Conservative
Lord Caine (Con - Life peer)
Shadow Minister (Northern Ireland)
Parliamentary Under-Secretaries of State
Fleur Anderson (Lab - Putney)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
There are no upcoming events identified
Select Committee Inquiry
Tuesday 17th December 2024
The Government's new approach to addressing the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee is launching an inquiry into Government policy on the legacy of the past in Northern …

Written Answers
Thursday 3rd July 2025
Community Relations: Northern Ireland
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will hold discussions with the First Minister of Northern …
Secondary Legislation
Tuesday 6th May 2025
Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Act 2007 (Extension of Duration of Non-jury Trial Provisions) Order 2025
Sections 1 to 8 of, and Schedule 1 to, the Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Act 2007 (c. 6) (“the …
Bills
Wednesday 24th January 2024
Northern Ireland (Executive Formation) Act 2024
A Bill to make provision to extend the period following the Northern Ireland Assembly election of 5 May 2022 during …
Dept. Publications
Tuesday 1st July 2025
15:30

Northern Ireland Office Commons Appearances

Oral Answers to Questions is a regularly scheduled appearance where the Secretary of State and junior minister will answer at the Dispatch Box questions from backbench MPs

Other Commons Chamber appearances can be:
  • Urgent Questions where the Speaker has selected a question to which a Minister must reply that day
  • Adjornment Debates a 30 minute debate attended by a Minister that concludes the day in Parliament.
  • Oral Statements informing the Commons of a significant development, where backbench MP's can then question the Minister making the statement.

Westminster Hall debates are performed in response to backbench MPs or e-petitions asking for a Minister to address a detailed issue

Written Statements are made when a current event is not sufficiently significant to require an Oral Statement, but the House is required to be informed.

Most Recent Commons Appearances by Category
Jul. 02
Oral Questions
Jun. 19
Written Statements
Apr. 30
Westminster Hall
Apr. 02
Adjournment Debate
View All Northern Ireland Office Commons Contibutions

Bills currently before Parliament

Northern Ireland Office does not have Bills currently before Parliament


Acts of Parliament created in the 2024 Parliament

Northern Ireland Office has not passed any Acts during the 2024 Parliament

Northern Ireland Office - Secondary Legislation

Sections 1 to 8 of, and Schedule 1 to, the Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Act 2007 (c. 6) (“the 2007 Act”) provide for trial on indictment without a jury (“the non-jury trial provisions”). Section 9(1) of the 2007 Act provides that the non-jury trial provisions expire at the end of the period of two years beginning with the day on which section 1 of the 2007 Act comes into force (“the effective period”). Section 1 came into force on 1st August 2007 so the effective period initially ran until 31st July 2009. Section 9(2) enables the Secretary of State to extend the effective period by order. Section 9(3)(b) provides that the effect of such an order is to extend the effective period for two years beginning with the time when the effective period would end but for the order.
View All Northern Ireland Office Secondary Legislation

Petitions

e-Petitions are administered by Parliament and allow members of the public to express support for a particular issue.

If an e-petition reaches 10,000 signatures the Government will issue a written response.

If an e-petition reaches 100,000 signatures the petition becomes eligible for a Parliamentary debate (usually Monday 4.30pm in Westminster Hall).

Trending Petitions
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144,425 Signatures
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Petitions with most signatures
Petition Open
166,845 Signatures
(5,848 in the last 7 days)
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144,425 Signatures
(176 in the last 7 days)
Petition Debates Contributed
144,425
c. 666 added daily
144,675
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We want the government to:
Remove loopholes that allow wealthy foreign individuals to make donations into UK political parties (e.g. by funnelling through UK registered companies).

Cap all donations to a reasonable amount.

Review limits on the fines that can be levied for breaking the rules

View All Northern Ireland Office Petitions

Departmental Select Committee

Northern Ireland Affairs Committee

Commons Select Committees are a formally established cross-party group of backbench MPs tasked with holding a Government department to account.

At any time there will be number of ongoing investigations into the work of the Department, or issues which fall within the oversight of the Department. Witnesses can be summoned from within the Government and outside to assist in these inquiries.

Select Committee findings are reported to the Commons, printed, and published on the Parliament website. The government then usually has 60 days to reply to the committee's recommendations.


13 Members of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee
Tonia Antoniazzi Portrait
Tonia Antoniazzi (Labour - Gower)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 9th September 2024
Alicia Kearns Portrait
Alicia Kearns (Conservative - Rutland and Stamford)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 21st October 2024
David Smith Portrait
David Smith (Labour - North Northumberland)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Al Pinkerton Portrait
Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat - Surrey Heath)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Katrina Murray Portrait
Katrina Murray (Labour - Cumbernauld and Kirkintilloch)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Adam Jogee Portrait
Adam Jogee (Labour - Newcastle-under-Lyme)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Leigh Ingham Portrait
Leigh Ingham (Labour - Stafford)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Claire Hanna Portrait
Claire Hanna (Social Democratic & Labour Party - Belfast South and Mid Down)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Sorcha Eastwood Portrait
Sorcha Eastwood (Alliance - Lagan Valley)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Chris Bloore Portrait
Chris Bloore (Labour - Redditch)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Dan Aldridge Portrait
Dan Aldridge (Labour - Weston-super-Mare)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 28th October 2024
Gavin Robinson Portrait
Gavin Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party - Belfast East)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 4th November 2024
Simon Hoare Portrait
Simon Hoare (Conservative - North Dorset)
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee Member since 16th December 2024
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee: Upcoming Events
Northern Ireland Affairs Committee - Private Meeting
7 Jul 2025, 2 p.m.
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Northern Ireland Affairs Committee - Private Meeting
9 Jul 2025, 9:30 a.m.
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Northern Ireland Affairs Committee: Previous Inquiries
Unfettered Access: Northern Ireland and customs arrangements after Brexit Brexit and Northern Ireland inquiry Fisheries inquiry Electricity sector in Northern Ireland: follow-up Agriculture inquiry The land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland: Follow-up inquiry Education funding in Northern Ireland inquiry Funding priorities in the 2018-19 Budget: Health Consultation on Stormont House Agreement inquiry Existing passport processes inquiry Changes to NI Renewable Heat Incentive payments inquiry Tourism in Northern Ireland inquiry Implications of the EU withdrawal agreement and the backstop for Northern Ireland inquiry Support for UK Victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi supplied Semtex and weapons: Follow-up inquiry Historical Institutional Abuse inquiry Welfare policy in Northern Ireland inquiry Organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland inquiry Devolution and democracy in Northern Ireland – dealing with the deficit Bombardier inquiry Work of the Secretary of State inquiry Update from the Police Service of Northern Ireland inquiry The land border between Northern Ireland and Ireland Northern Ireland and the EU Referendum inquiry Implementation of English votes for English laws inquiry Electricity sector in Northern Ireland inquiry Work of the Commissioner for Victims and Survivors inquiry The work of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland evidence session Future of the land border with the Republic of Ireland inquiry The work of the Chief Electoral Officer for Northern Ireland inquiry An air transport strategy for Northern Ireland Air passenger duty: implications for Northern Ireland Corporation Tax in Northern Ireland Fuel laundering and smuggling Draft Northern Ireland Bill The banking structure in Northern Ireland Outcome of the Spending Review and the Talks Promoting the tourism industry in Northern Ireland through the tax system inquiry Responsibilities of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland HM Government support for UK victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi-supplied Semtex and weapons inquiry Administrative scheme for "on-the-runs" Cross-border co-operation on policing, security and criminal justice after Brexit The effectiveness of the institutions of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement The funding and delivery of public services in Northern Ireland Integrated Education Renewable Energy and Net Zero in Northern Ireland Defence Spending in Northern Ireland Funding and delivery of public services: follow up Impact of the Autumn Budget on the farming sector in Northern Ireland The operation of the Windsor Framework The Government's new approach to addressing the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland Agriculture Brexit and Northern Ireland Implications of the EU withdrawal agreement and the backstop for Northern Ireland Changes to NI Renewable Heat Incentive payments Consultation on Stormont House Agreement Education funding in Northern Ireland Existing passport processes Funding priorities in the 2018-19 Budget: Health Historical Institutional Abuse Support for UK Victims of IRA attacks that used Gaddafi supplied Semtex and weapons: Follow-up Organised crime gangs in Northern Ireland Tourism in Northern Ireland Update from the Police Service of Northern Ireland Work of the Secretary of State

50 most recent Written Questions

(View all written questions)
Written Questions can be tabled by MPs and Lords to request specific information information on the work, policy and activities of a Government Department

30th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will hold discussions with the First Minister of Northern Ireland on the potential impact of her attendance at IRA commemorative events on inter-community relationships in Northern Ireland.

I speak regularly with Northern Ireland’s Ministers and Party Leaders on a variety of issues. The attendance of Northern Ireland’s political representatives at commemorative events is a matter for the political parties to decide themselves.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking to replace the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

Last December, I laid a proposal for a draft remedial order in Parliament, representing the first step in fulfilling the Government’s commitment to repeal and replace the Legacy Act.

I am continuing to speak to all interested parties about our forthcoming primary legislation, which will ensure we have legacy mechanisms in place that are lawful and in which people can have confidence in.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking to replace the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

Last December, I laid a proposal for a draft remedial order in Parliament, representing the first step in fulfilling the Government’s commitment to repeal and replace the Legacy Act.

I am continuing to speak to all interested parties about our forthcoming primary legislation, which will ensure we have legacy mechanisms in place that are lawful and in which people can have confidence in.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on improving childcare provision in Northern Ireland.

This Labour government’s mission is to break down the barriers to opportunity for every child, at every stage across the UK.

Earlier this month, the Minister for Early Education and I met with NI Education Minister Givan in Belfast to discuss childcare and areas of shared learning between the two governments.

The NI Education Minister recently announced £55m for measures which will include an extension of the Childcare Subsidy Scheme to cover school-age children in Northern Ireland, which I welcome.

Fleur Anderson
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on improving childcare provision in Northern Ireland.

This Labour government’s mission is to break down the barriers to opportunity for every child, at every stage across the UK.

Earlier this month, the Minister for Early Education and I met with NI Education Minister Givan in Belfast to discuss childcare and areas of shared learning between the two governments.

The NI Education Minister recently announced £55m for measures which will include an extension of the Childcare Subsidy Scheme to cover school-age children in Northern Ireland, which I welcome.

Fleur Anderson
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
17th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions took place, if any, between the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and representatives of the Finucane family regarding the appointment of the two assessors to the Patrick Finucane Inquiry; whether the family's consent was sought; and whether it was granted.

Under the Inquiries Act, the power to establish a statutory independent inquiry and the constitution of the inquiry lie with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

In the Secretary of State’s Written Ministerial Statement of 13 June, he set out that he had appointed Baroness O’Loan and Francesca Del Mese as Assessors to the Patrick Finucane Inquiry under section 11 of the Inquiries Act 2005 in accordance with the established appointments process. The Secretary of State then informed the Finucane family in the week of the announcement in line with customary practice. Their role is to provide expert advice to the Rt Hon Sir Gary Hickinbottom who has been appointed as Chair of the Inquiry under section 1 of the Act. I remain confident that these appointments have the relevant knowledge, experience and professionalism the Inquiry requires.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
25th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many reports of threats have been made to the internal Journalist Safety Group in Northern Ireland.

I commend the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) on the progress they have made to address journalist safety in Northern Ireland. They have created an internal Journalist Safety Group and appointed two Journalist Safety Officers. Since 2022, the PSNI Journalist Safety Group has recorded 46 occasions where a journalist has brought a concern to PSNI.

A free, independent media is a cornerstone of our democracy. It is vital that journalists are able to continue their work without the fear of attack or threat. The National Action Plan for the Safety of Journalists sets out the approach to increase the safety of journalists.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
20th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he plans to provide support to former Northern Ireland (a) prison officers and (b) police to maintain security at their homes.

The Northern Ireland Office Home Protection Scheme is in place to provide protective security measures to those in certain occupations who are assessed to be under significant threat from Northern Ireland-related terrorism. Serving and former prison and police officers fall within that range of occupations.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will meet with the Federation of Small Businesses Northern Ireland to discuss its report entitled, Windsor Framework Realities: Barriers to Trade in the UK Internal Market, published on 24 June 2025.

I discussed the findings of the report at the recent East West Council which was attended by members of Intertrade UK. There is a wide range of support available for businesses using the schemes under the Windsor Framework. The Government remains committed to realising its benefits alongside protecting the UK internal market. As we do so, we will continue to work closely with Northern Ireland businesses and representative organisations like the Federation of Small Businesses.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when he plans to publish the report from the independent review of the post-Brexit trading arrangements, conducted by Lord Paul Murphy.

It remains for Lord Murphy to provide the final report of the Independent Review of the Windsor Framework. The Government will then proceed with arranging the publication of that report, laying it in Parliament and transmitting it to the Northern Ireland Assembly, in line with the Terms of Reference for the Review.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on improving childcare provision in Northern Ireland.

My colleague Minister Anderson regularly meets with the Northern Ireland Minister for Education on important issues, including childcare provision, and has recently facilitated discussions between the Minister and the UK Government Minister for Early Education, Stephen Morgan MP to discuss areas for greater co-operation.

I welcome the recent progress taken by the Northern Ireland Executive to provide increased childcare support. Whilst childcare in Northern Ireland is devolved, the UK Government is keen to see this work progressed so that parents are better able to balance childcare alongside their work.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
23rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 23 June 2025 to Question 59713 on Foreign Investment in UK: Northern Ireland, on what date he discussed filling the role of US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland with the US Administration and Congress.

Economic growth is the number one priority of the Government. That is why we are working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive to create a thriving, competitive and regionally balanced economy in Northern Ireland through increased investment, job creation, and higher living standards.

I had a range of meetings during my visit to Washington in March, but the role of a US Special Envoy to Northern Ireland was not raised with me. There has not been such a position in every US Administration, and is a matter for which the US Administration is responsible.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
12th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent on 20 December 2024 (HL3343), in which said that they were "currently considering the best way to take forward the approach referred to in Annex B of the Safeguarding the Union command paper", what was the outcome of those considerations.

This Government continues to make progress on delivering the commitments made in the Safeguarding the Union command paper. The best way to take forward the approach referred to in Annex B remains under consideration.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
12th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government which commitments arising from the Safeguarding the Union command paper (CP1021), published on 31 January 2024, (1) have been, or (2) are in the process of being, implemented; and which commitments remain outstanding.

The Government continues to make progress on delivering the commitments made in the Safeguarding the Union command paper. In the past month alone, that has included: taking forward legislation which allows the Government to introduce ‘not for EU’ labelling in Great Britain; hosting the first East-West Council meeting in Northern Ireland; and the completion of work to digitise the Belfast News Letter.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
20th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how much funding he has allocated to the Finucane Inquiry.

As I outlined in my oral statement of 11 September 2024, I considered the likely costs and impact of the Patrick Finucane Inquiry on public finances. It is the Government’s expectation that the Inquiry will avoid unnecessary costs given all the previous reviews and investigations and the large amount of information and material that is already in the public domain. Public inquiries regularly publish financial reports on their expenditure in the course of their work.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
16th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he has made an assessment of trends in the level of violence against women in (a) Northern Ireland and (b) the rest of Europe.

Violence against women and girls is a national emergency and last year seven women were killed in Northern Ireland. Through my ongoing engagement with organisations working to support victims and survivors and tackle this societal issue, it is clear that there are additional challenges unique to the Northern Ireland context. I welcome the Northern Ireland Executive’s Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls that places the overall emphasis on prevention, tackling the root causes, and stopping the violence before it starts.

Fleur Anderson
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
17th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, for what reason he rejected the Electoral Commission of Northern Ireland's request to separate the next scheduled local government and Assembly elections.

The date for local government elections is set in statute as the first Thursday in May every 4 years, and for the Assembly elections as the first Thursday in May every 5 years. The people of Northern Ireland expect to go to the polls on 6 May 2027 and the Government has no intention of changing that.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
12th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether his Department has updated guidance on the use of single-sex facilities in response to the Supreme Court judgement in the case of For Women Scotland v The Scottish Ministers of 16 April 2025.

We will review and update policy wherever necessary to ensure it complies with the latest legal requirements. We aim to ensure appropriate facilities are available for all staff.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
4th Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to protect St Lucia Barracks in Omagh against arson attacks.

The Ministry of Defence owns a small area of the St Lucia site (known as the historic core), and the majority of the site is owned by the Northern Ireland Department for Infrastructure; it is for them to comment on any further steps they are taking to protect the site.

I would urge anyone with information about these attacks to contact the PSNI.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
13th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many staff network events took place in his Department in May 2025; and what the names of those events were.

The Diversity, Inclusion and Wellbeing group held one event, a staff delivered Mental Health Presentation, on Thursday 15 May as part of Mental Health Awareness Week. It was attended by 25 staff members.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
2nd Jun 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government how many civil cases have been lodged with the Northern Ireland Office in relation to the 2020 Supreme Court decision that the signing of interim custody orders by a Minister or official other than a Secretary of State was unlawful; when were the interim custody orders signed; how many of the claimants are deceased; how many cases have been determined; and at what cost they were determined.

Approximately 100 civil damages claims relating to Interim Custody Orders signed by a Minister or official other than the Secretary of State have been lodged with the Northern Ireland Office since the decision of the Supreme Court in 2020. Around a tenth of these have been brought on behalf of an individual who is deceased. The relevant date period for an ICO claim relating to the signing of an order by a Minister or official other than a Secretary of State is between 24 March 1972 and 5 December 1975. None of the claims have yet been determined by a judge.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
10th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many permanent civil servants had contracts of employment terminated for poor performance in (a) 2022-23, (b) 2023-24 and (c) 2024-25.

No permanent civil servants have had their contracts of employment terminated for poor performance in the time frame given.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
4th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many permanent civil servants in his Department are staff without assigned posts; and how many are placed in an equivalent (a) people action team, (b) priority movers list, (c) redeployment register, (d) talent pool and (e) skills match hub in the most recent period for which data is available.

At any point in time, there is likely to be a small number of individuals who have been displaced due to restructures within their cost centres or, for example, have returned from a loan from another department and their role no longer exists. The exact number changes on a day-to-day basis.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
4th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with his counterparts in Northern Ireland on waiting times for ADHD (a) medication and (b) treatment for children.

This Government is committed to working with the Executive to transform its public services and improve outcomes for people living in Northern Ireland, including children. That is why I and other UK Government Ministers regularly engage with Executive Ministers in Northern Ireland, including the Health Minister, to discuss plans to improve public services.

However, I also recognise that health is devolved in Northern Ireland and directly tackling waiting lists is a matter for the NI Health Minister and his department. I welcome the recent steps he has taken to improve waiting times. Improving outcomes in Northern Ireland will take time and we will continue to be an active partner and work supportively with the Executive as best we can.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
5th Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking with the (a) Northern Ireland Executive and (b) Royal Portrush Golf Club to help create a lasting (i) sporting and (ii) economic legacy following the Open Golf Championship in July 2025.

Royal Portrush will stage the 153rd Open Golf Championship next month, providing another outstanding showcase for golf in Northern Ireland. The 148th Open, held at Royal Portrush nine years ago, became the biggest sporting event ever held in Northern Ireland, delivering a combined economic and media benefit of more than £100 million to the region.

I visited Royal Portrush Golf Club in April which was an excellent opportunity to learn more about their preparations which are well underway. I would encourage the Right Honourable Member to share any suggestions he has to help create a lasting sporting and economic legacy from the Open with the Department for the Economy in Northern Ireland, Invest Northern Ireland, and the Department for Business and Trade.

Economic growth is the number one priority of the Government. That is why we are working closely with the Northern Ireland Executive to create a thriving, competitive and regionally balanced economy in Northern Ireland through increased investment, job creation, and higher living standards.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
3rd Jun 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he has taken steps to help support (a) businesses and (b) consumers in Northern Ireland to order from suppliers based in Great Britain in the period since the signing of the trade agreement with the EU on 19 May 2025.

The Government’s renewed partnership with the EU will deliver a broader range of benefits for people and businesses across the UK, including the SPS Agreement which, once implemented, will help facilitate the smooth flow of agrifood and plants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, reduce costs for businesses and improve consumer choice. These new arrangements will now be developed into a legal text over the coming months.

The Government also remains committed to implementing the Windsor Framework and to protecting the UK internal market. The Framework guarantees unfettered access for Northern Ireland’s businesses to the UK market and also supports traders to do business. Many are taking advantage of the support provided by the Trader Support Service.

On 1 May 2025, the Government introduced important new arrangements for freight and parcels movements to ensure that goods can continue to move smoothly from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. The new arrangements ensure that goods sent to or from consumers will not be subject to customs declarations or duty. We have also introduced a range of schemes to support businesses by removing unnecessary checks and paperwork; over 10,000 businesses are already signed up to the UK Internal Market Scheme.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the East–West Council.

The East-West Council, established under the Safeguarding the Union Command Paper, first met in London in March 2024. It will meet for the first time in Belfast later this month. This forum provides exciting opportunities for Northern Ireland as we prioritise building and strengthening connections across the United Kingdom, focussing on shared opportunities and addressing mutual challenges.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking to help improve public services in Northern Ireland.

Alongside providing £235 million in funding for projects through the Public Sector Transformation Board, we have strengthened the exchange of best practice on improving public services. £129 million of this funding has already been allocated to services in health, SEN and education, waste rainwater management, planning and justice.

We continue to work with the Executive as it prioritises spending, progresses transformation, and focuses on reducing waiting lists. For example, following the publication of the NHS Plan: Reforming Elective Care for Patients in February, we have now agreed to further collaboration between UK Government and Executive health departments to improve access to timely, high-quality care for patients in Northern Ireland and across the UK.

This Government is committed to working with our Executive colleagues on our shared goal of improving public services.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Health Minister on establishing a public inquiry into issues around cervical screening in the Southern Health Trust.

I recognise the serious concerns regarding cervical screening services in Northern Ireland. However, this is a devolved matter and responsibility rests with the Northern Ireland Department of Health.

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State and I liaise regularly with the NI Minister of Health and have raised cervical screening issues following a meeting with victims and relatives of cervical screening errors. We will take the next opportunity to ask what steps are being taken to ensure that women in Northern Ireland are receiving the care they need.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps he is taking to replace the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

The Government has already begun the process of repealing and replacing the previous Government's Legacy Act. On 4 December 2024, I laid a proposed draft remedial order before Parliament that, if adopted, will remove from the Act a number of provisions that have been found by the NI courts to be incompatible with the UK’s human rights obligations. These include all those relating to the immunity scheme, and the bar on new civil cases.

While we want to make progress as swiftly as possible, we remain committed to engaging widely with all interested parties to help determine what provisions should be included in new primary legislation. At the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference (BIIGC) on 24 April, the Governments discussed Legacy issues, including proposals for legislative reform, and the Government remains committed to introducing primary legislation when Parliamentary time allows.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd May 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the answer by Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent on 22 May (HL Deb col 244), what assessment they have made of the risk that elderly veterans will be compelled to appear in coroners' courts in Northern Ireland as a result of their decision to re-open legacy inquests and because of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.

This Government's commitment to our Armed Forces community is unshakeable. The vast majority of veterans who served in Operation Banner did so with distinction in very difficult circumstances.

This Government’s approach will ensure that legacy cases are dealt with sensitively, efficiently and lawfully, and that veterans who engage with legacy mechanisms are provided with the appropriate support. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is working closely with the Defence Secretary and Minister for Veterans and People on how to ensure that their interests are fully considered in the changes we are going to make.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
21st May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment he has made of the potential implications for his polices of levels of economic growth in Northern Ireland.

Economic growth is the priority for this government, taking advantage of the UK’s unique strengths and untapped potential so we can put more money in people’s pockets, and our Industrial Strategy is central to that.

The Industrial Strategy will be published in June and will support the Northern Ireland Executive’s plans for growth. We have identified eight sectors that offer the highest potential for growth and are working alongside the Northern Ireland Executive, business leaders, and trade unions to ensure that the whole of Northern Ireland benefits from the Industrial Strategy. The latest figures from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency show that Northern Ireland experienced stronger growth than the United Kingdom as a whole last year.

At the Autumn Budget, the Chancellor confirmed the Northern Ireland Executive would receive a record £18.2 billion this year - the largest settlement in real terms in the history of devolution. This includes a £1.5 billion top-up through Barnett in 2025-6. It is now for the Executive to allocate this money in line with its priorities and this Government wants to work with the Executive to help promote Northern Ireland as a fantastic place to invest and do business.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many cases the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information is investigating that relate to deaths of (a) armed forces personnel and (b) police officers.

The website of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery sets out details of current cases, including those relating to the killings of armed forces personnel and police officers. It is noted that those details do not reflect every case that is being investigated, rather they reflect those which Requesting Individuals have agreed can be made public and which the Commission has assessed likewise.

This information can be found at:

https://icrir.independent-inquiry.uk/live-investigations-in-information-recovery/.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Executive on the redevelopment of Casement Park.

I am continuing to engage with all partners involved in the Executive-led Casement Park redevelopment, including the Northern Ireland Executive and the GAA, to assess the options available regarding the project.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
30th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 20 May 2025 to Question 52588 on Terrorism: Northern Ireland, what his Department's planned timeline is to complete its exploration of lawful measures to prevent (a) Gerry Adams and (b) others interned without trial in the 1970s receiving compensation following the proposed repeal of sections 46 and 47 of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023.

The original Supreme Court ruling in this case was in 2020, and in February 2024 the High Court in Northern Ireland found the provisions in S.46 and 47 of the Legacy Act 2023, which concerned Interim Custody Orders, to be incompatible with the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), alongside other provisions such as those relating to immunity from prosecution.

In line with our commitment, the Government tabled a draft Remedial Order in December 2024 to repeal parts of the Act that were found to be incompatible by the Northern Ireland Courts. The Government will bring forward legislation to make further changes when Parliamentary time allows.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 22 May 2025 to Question 52795 on Domestic Visits: Northern Ireland, on how many occasions did the Secretary of State notify Rt hon. and hon. Members in advance that he would visit their constituency.

The Honourable Gentleman will be aware it is a requirement to notify Members of Parliament before a visit to their constituency. For the recent occasion when he was not notified, I have apologised to him.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th May 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the number of EU laws that apply to Northern Ireland; and whether they have any plans to address their continued application to Northern Ireland.

The legal texts of the Windsor Framework are available online and set out the rules that are applicable. The Government submits Explanatory Memoranda to Parliament and the NI Assembly about proposed changes to those regulations to facilitate scrutiny, which can be found at:

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/explanatory-memoranda-on-eu-documents

The Government remains committed to implementing the Windsor Framework and protecting the UK internal market.

Baroness Smith of Basildon
Leader of the House of Lords and Lord Privy Seal
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what discussions he has had with the First Minister and Deputy First Minister on the appointment of a Victims Commissioner in Northern Ireland.

The appointment of a Commissioner for Victims and Survivors is a devolved matter for Ministers in the Executive Office and is regulated by the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Office has been kept aware of progress in this matter by the Commission for Victims and Survivors as part of ongoing engagement on legacy related matters.

I hope the process of appointing a new Commissioner will conclude soon, allowing the successful candidate to take up this important role representing victims and survivors.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, when he expects a Victims Commissioner to be appointed in Northern Ireland.

The role of Victims Commissioner is a public appointment made by Ministers in the Executive Office under the guidance of the Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland. I understand that the First Minister and deputy First Minister have met candidates deemed suitable for appointment by the independent selection panel. I hope the process of appointing a new Commissioner will conclude soon, allowing the successful candidate to take up this important role representing victims and survivors.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he has had discussions with the Northern Ireland Executive on increasing the rate of construction of social housing.

Construction of Social Housing is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Department of Communities.

The UK Government has provided the Executive with a record £18.2bn for 2025-26. This includes an additional £1.5bn for 2025/26 and represents the largest settlement in the history of devolution. It is for the Executive to allocate money to the Department of Communities for social housing construction.

The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and I have met with the Minister for Communities, Gordon Lyons MLA, to discuss a range of issues, including social housing.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether a government representative will visit Northern Ireland for the Orange Order parades on 12 July 2025.

For security reasons we do not share details of Northern Ireland Office Ministers’ itineraries in advance.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 14 May 2025 to Question 51251 on Domestic Visits: Northern Ireland, on how many of those visits the hon. Member for that constituency received prior notification.

The Honourable Gentleman will be aware it is a requirement to notify Members of Parliament before a visit to their constituency. For the recent occasion when he was not notified, I have apologised to him.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many of the 18 parliamentary constituencies in Northern Ireland has he visited since his appointment.

I have visited 16 parliamentary constituencies across Northern Ireland since my appointment.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
19th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, which Ulster-Scots groups he has met; when those meetings took place; which Ulster-Scots groups he has visited; and when he visited them.

Since my appointment, I have met with a range of language groups in Northern Ireland, including the Ulster-Scots Agency.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
19th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, which Irish language groups he has met; when those meetings took place; which Irish language centres he has visited; and when he visited them.

Since my appointment, I have met with a number of Irish language groups in Northern Ireland, including Foras na Gaeilge.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
19th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the UK-EU reset deal on businesses in Northern Ireland.

The Government's new strategic partnership with the EU will deliver greater prosperity and security for Northern Ireland and the UK as a whole. In particular, the new SPS Agreement with the EU will facilitate the smooth flow of agrifood and plants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, protecting the UK’s internal market, reducing costs for businesses and improving consumer choice.

The Summit also marked the establishment of a new security and defence partnership that will help us work together with the EU on threats to national security and will support our defence industry, which has more than 9,000 aerospace, defence, space, and security jobs in Northern Ireland. In addition, we announced a closer law enforcement relationship with the EU that will help prevent crime and bring perpetrators to justice.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
19th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will hold discussions with InterTrade UK on the potential impact of the trade agreement with the EU on internal trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

The Government's new strategic partnership with the EU will deliver greater prosperity and security for Northern Ireland and the UK as a whole. In particular, the new SPS Agreement with the EU will facilitate the smooth flow of agrifood and plants from Great Britain to Northern Ireland, protecting the UK’s internal market, reducing costs for businesses and improving consumer choice.

Intertrade UK is focused on promoting all internal UK trade including work to support businesses across the UK realise the full benefits of the new SPS Agreement.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
12th May 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Northern Ireland Office pays subscription fees to Stonewall.

The Northern Ireland Office does not pay subscription fees to Stonewall.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
14th May 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent assessment he has made of the potential impact of the work of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery on delivering truth and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.

A growing number of families are taking cases to ICRIR, and the Government has confidence in its ability to start delivering investigations, accountability, and information for them.

In its judgment, the Court of Appeal recognised ICRIR’s powers to access information and its independence from government. However, the confidence of families in its work is paramount.

That is why the Government has already begun the process of repealing and replacing the previous Government's Legacy Act and is committed to fundamentally reforming the ICRIR to further strengthen its powers and independence.

The Government will continue to work with all parties in a spirit of openness as we seek a resolution to legacy that can see us move forward together.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland