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
Matthew Patrick (Lab - Wirral West)
Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Northern Ireland Office)
There are no upcoming events identified
Debates
Thursday 4th September 2025
Select Committee Docs
Wednesday 10th September 2025
16:34
Select Committee Inquiry
Thursday 10th July 2025
Economic growth in Northern Ireland: new and emerging sectors

Kickstarting economic growth is the number one mission for this Government’s term in office. In this inquiry, the committee will …

Written Answers
Friday 12th September 2025
Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the recent comments of the Chief Commissioner of the …
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
Monday 8th September 2025
16:18

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
Sep. 04
Written Statements
Jul. 14
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
Petition Open
196,834 Signatures
(839 in the last 7 days)
Petitions with most signatures
Petition Open
196,834 Signatures
(839 in the last 7 days)
Petition Debates Contributed
144,783
Petition Closed
22 Jul 2025
closed 1 month, 3 weeks ago

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: 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 Economic growth in Northern Ireland: new and emerging sectors 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

1st Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they will take to enable voters in Northern Ireland who already have a form of identification to obtain electoral identity cards.

The Electoral Office for Northern Ireland is responsible for the supply of electoral identity cards in Northern Ireland.

There has been a requirement to show photographic voter ID in Northern Ireland since 2003 and there is a comprehensive list of accepted documents to bring to the polling station. If an individual does not have any of these forms of photographic ID, they may apply for an electoral identity card.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
1st Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government when they will announce the independent expert who will scope out the viability of a transition process within the remit of the Independent Reporting Commission.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland expects to be in a position to make an announcement on this appointment in the near future.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
1st Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with EU counterparts at the level of the Joint Committee to fulfil paragraph 2 of Article 6 of the Ireland/Northern Ireland Protocol which states that the Joint Committee “shall adopt appropriate recommendations with a view to avoiding controls at the ports and airports of Northern Ireland to the extent possible”.

All Joint Committee meetings are conducted in line with the rules of procedure set out in Annex VIII of the Withdrawal Agreement, and are therefore confidential unless otherwise decided by the co-chairs (Rule 10).

A full depository of Withdrawal Agreement Joint Committee announcements and activity can be found at gov.uk.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
3rd Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 21 July (HC68604) on the Independent Review of the Windsor Framework, whether a date has yet been set for the publication of the Review.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland laid a copy of the report in Parliament and transmitted a copy to the Northern Ireland Assembly on 4 September 2025, which was confirmed to this House on the same day in Written Ministerial Statement HLWS907. The report has also been made available online.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
1st Sep 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Chief Commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission retains the full confidence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland in the light of her recent comments about the employment of former members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary at the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is operationally independent from Government. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has met the Chief Commissioner to discuss a range of issues, including the Government’s approach to legacy reform.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
2nd Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether his Department has spent money on promotion through social media influencers since July 2024.

The Northern Ireland Office has not spent money on social media influencers since July 2024.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
4th Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, which parties were offered an advance briefing on the Independent Review of the Windsor Framework.

The Rt Hon Lord Murphy engaged widely across the political spectrum during the Independent Review.

The Northern Ireland Office speaks to parties regularly and does not give a running commentary on those discussions.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
3rd Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 3 September 2025 to Question 70329 on Terrorism: Northern Ireland, what information his Department holds on the jurisdiction in which the trial (a) is taking place for the person awaiting trial and (b) was taking place for the person who died before legal proceedings were concluded.

In reference to my previous Written Answer, the Northern Ireland Office is aware of at least one individual who has received a so-called 'on-the-run letter’ and is currently awaiting trial in Northern Ireland.

We are also aware, through publicly available information, of another individual in receipt of a letter, whose legal proceedings in Northern Ireland were discontinued upon that individual’s death.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
3rd Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 3 September 2025 to Question 70331 on Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023, if he will set out his planned timetable for (a) responding to the Joint Committee on Human Rights’ recommendations regarding the draft Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial) Order and (b) laying the final Order.

The Government is committed to introducing primary legislation when parliamentary time allows, including to reform and strengthen the independent Commission to ensure it is fully human rights compliant. As I stated at the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee on 3rd September, I intend to lay the draft Remedial Order and the Government’s response to the JCHR at the same time as introducing primary legislation.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent engagement he has had with communities in Downpatrick, Co Down on community (a) safety and (b) cohesion.

I speak regularly with people across Northern Ireland and am encouraged by the work of grassroots communities to support a safer, more cohesive and reconciled future for all. I have carried out over 100 visits to 16 constituencies across Northern Ireland since my appointment, including to South Down. I would welcome suggestions for future visits from Parliamentary colleagues.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
2nd Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with Invest Northern Ireland and the Minister for the Economy of Northern Ireland on inward investment opportunities following the golf Open Championship at Royal Portrush Golf Club in July 2025.

I continue to take every opportunity to promote investment into Northern Ireland, following the success of the golf Open Championship, and regularly engage with the Northern Ireland Executive and its relevant bodies to support a thriving, competitive and regionally balanced economy in Northern Ireland through increased investment and job creation to boost living standards.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
2nd Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will have discussions with the US Consulate General in Belfast on how (a) heritage and (b) community groups in Northern Ireland can commemorate the 250th anniversary of the USA.

The UK Government is keen to collaborate and provide support for work to celebrate the 250th anniversary of US Independence.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
1st Sep 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, for what purposes their Department has used artificial intelligence in the last year.

The Northern Ireland Office has used artificial intelligence in recent months to help us all work more efficiently by assisting with tasks like drafting emails, summarising documents and taking notes in meetings. The use of artificial intelligence aligns with our focus on using data and digital methods to deliver results and support the Prime Minister’s vision for the Civil Service.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of the application of General Product Safety Regulation requirements on the cost of new vehicles in Northern Ireland; and what steps he is taking to help reduce the cost of vehicles in Northern Ireland, when compared to other parts of the UK.

The Government is committed to reducing barriers to trade between the UK and the EU, and to protecting the UK internal market. To that end, the Government has recently written to vehicle manufacturers to confirm that we intend to align requirements and ensure consistency between the type approval regimes that apply in Great Britain and the EU in order to reduce potential administrative burdens. On the specific point about the General Product Safety Regulation, we do not consider this will impact the cost of new vehicles in Northern Ireland.

In relation to Northern Ireland, the Government meets regularly with individual manufacturers, the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, and has met the National Franchise Dealers Association to understand their concerns. To that end, I draw attention to the recent statement by the Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury in relation to measures being taken on Benefit-in-Kind taxation matters in relation to Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles, which will mitigate the increase in tax from higher CO2 emission standards that will apply in Northern Ireland next year and the Government will shortly consult on introducing these standards in Great Britain.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what information his Department holds on the number of suspected IRA members accused of terrorism offences between 1970 and 1990 that were later acquitted.

The Northern Ireland Office does not hold information relating to charging and prosecutions of terrorism offences; this would be held by the operationally independent PSNI and PPSNI.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will publish a breakdown of costs per government Department for the (a) Coagh and (b) Clonoe inquests.

Government Departments handle inquest costs in aggregate. We are unable to provide a breakdown of the costs for these specific inquests.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what assessment he has made of the effectiveness of the (a) Chief Commissioner and (b) Commissioner of Investigations of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Recovery.

A growing number of families are taking cases to the independent Commission and the Government has confidence in its team of dedicated staff to effectively deliver for them. The Court of Appeal has recognised the Commission’s structural independence and wide powers.

The confidence of families in the Commission’s work is paramount and that is why this Government is in the process of repealing and replacing the previous Government's Legacy Act, and is committed to reforming the Commission to further strengthen its powers and independence.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what information his Department holds on the number of people who had previously received an on-the-run letter that have since been (a) charged with and (b) prosecuted for terrorist offences.

This is a matter which falls within the devolved competence of policing and justice, with the Public Prosecution Service for Northern Ireland being the authority responsible for making determinations on bringing criminal charges against individuals.

The Northern Ireland Office is, however, aware through publicly available information of two individuals who received ‘On the Run’ letters and who were subsequently charged with terrorist offences. One individual died before legal proceedings were concluded and the other is currently awaiting trial.

The 2014 Hallett Review, led by Lady Justice Hallett, found that the letters do not prevent investigation or prosecution. This position has subsequently been confirmed by the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, as recently as March 2024.

The Government is fully committed to ensuring that all individuals are treated equally under the law, and that any framework addressing the legacy of the Troubles must be both fair and balanced.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 10 July 2025 to Question 65212 on Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023, whether his Department plans to lay the draft Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 (Remedial) Order before the Conference recess.

I have 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. The Order seeks to remedy a number of human rights deficiencies identified by the Courts, and the Government is currently considering the published recommendations of the Joint Committee on Human Rights regarding the draft Order. We will respond to this report in due course.

The Government has also committed to introducing primary legislation when parliamentary time allows, including to reform and strengthen the independent Commission established by the Act to ensure it is fully human rights compliant and can command public confidence.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what proportion of staff in his Department have flexible working arrangements; and how many of those work compressed hours.

At the Northern Ireland Office, flexible working requests are submitted directly to line managers for discussion and approval. The department does not maintain data centrally on the number of staff working compressed hours.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what proportion of staff in his Department did not meet the minimum office attendance target in the latest period for which data is available; and what sanctions his Department issues to staff who do not meet this target.

The Northern Ireland Office follows the cross Civil Service expectation that everyone spend at least 60% of their time at a Government building or on official business, such as visiting stakeholders, unless they have an agreed adjustment or exception. Deputy Directors monitor records of team office attendance and therefore data is not held centrally.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
29th Aug 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what information they hold on the number of workdays that were completed remotely in their Department in (a) 2024 and (b) 2025 to date.

The Northern Ireland Office follows the cross Civil Service expectation that everyone spend at least 60% of their time at a Government building or on official business, such as visiting stakeholders, unless they have an agreed adjustment or exception. Deputy Directors monitor records of team office attendance and therefore data is not held centrally.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will publish a summary of the work completed by Intertrade UK since its appointment.

The Terms of Reference and Work Programme for Intertrade UK were published online on 26 August 2025. The body is now focused on implementing its work programme, which is based on three priorities: overcoming barriers to trade, promoting UK internal market opportunities and enhancing infrastructure and connectivity.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will publish a summary of the work completed by the Windsor Framework Independent Monitoring Panel which he appointed last year.

It is for the Independent Monitoring Panel to determine how they conduct their work and then to report to Government. The Panel’s first monitoring period ended on 30 June and the Government expects to receive their first report in due course. The Government will then publish it in accordance with its commitment to do so.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
21st Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what engagement he has had with the White Butterfly Foundation.

Northern Ireland Office ministers and officials regularly engage with charities and voluntary and community sector organisations in Northern Ireland on a wide range of issues. I have not met the White Butterfly Foundation.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he plans to undertake a review of the effectiveness of the Connect Fund by the end of the first round of funding.

The Connect Fund will award up to £1 million to strengthen civic East-West collaboration on matters of shared interest, including mutual challenges and opportunities across a range of sectors that directly affect communities in Northern Ireland. The Government will consider the lessons learnt from the first round and apply them to the second round as appropriate.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
22nd Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, how many employees in his Department earn (a) £100,000 and (b) £166,000 or more per year.

Information on employees who earn over £100,000 can be found in the annual report and accounts. The most recent report can be found here. The 2024/5 annual report and accounts will be published later in the year.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
24th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they will attach conditions to the funding for the Casement Park project; and whether these will include not using taxpayer-funded sports grounds for competitions named after terrorists.

The UK Government has committed £50m of Capital Financial Transactions funding to help the Northern Ireland Executive to redevelop Casement Park. However, it is up to the Executive to decide how to implement the development of the stadium.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
24th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Gaelic Athletic Association to ensure that Gaelic Athletic Association sporting competitions, particularly for young people, are not named after terrorists.

Everyone has the right to celebrate their culture but they should do so in a respectful and lawful manner. Sport has the unique ability to bring people together and it ought to be something which unites rather than divides us.

Any allegation of glorifying terrorism is an operational matter for the PSNI and the Public Prosecution Service of Northern Ireland, both of which are independent of government.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
23rd Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what engagement they have had with the Federation of Small Businesses about their report Windsor Framework Realities, published on 24 June.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland discussed the findings of the report at the East West Council in June, which was attended by representatives of Intertrade UK who are also considering the report as part of their work to promote trade across the UK. The Government has engaged extensively with Northern Ireland businesses and representative organisations like the Federation of Small Businesses on the implementation of the Windsor Framework. We will continue to do so, including in relation to the report in question.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
22nd Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what representations they have made to the Chief Commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission to ensure that she exercises her duties impartially in relation to unionism and Irish nationalism, particularly in respect of the legacy of the Northern Ireland Troubles.

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is independent of Government and has a statutory duty to ensure government and other public bodies protect the human rights of everyone in Northern Ireland. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has met the Chief Commissioner to discuss a range of issues, including the Government’s approach to legacy reform. Northern Ireland Office officials have also met representatives of the Commission to discuss legacy matters.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what discussions they have had with the government of Ireland concerning the proposal to replace the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023; whether they have held such meetings with the main political parties in Northern Ireland; and, if so, when.

The Government continues to undertake discussions on specific measures to be included in primary legislation; this includes with the Northern Ireland parties and bilateral discussions with the Irish Government. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland last met party leaders to discuss legacy matters on the 3 and 4 June 2025.

At the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference in April, both the UK and Irish governments expressed a desire to reach agreement on a joint approach to addressing legacy issues. These discussions remain constructive, and we continue to work intensively with a view to reaching a formal agreement. This was highlighted by the Prime Minister’s recent constructive call with the Taoiseach on 18 July.

The effective participation of both the UK and Irish governments in a legacy process is vital if we are to provide as many families as possible with the information and accountability that they have long sought.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether they intend to introduce legislation to prevent those interned in Northern Ireland during the Troubles from being eligible for compensation following the repeal of the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023; and, if so, when.

As the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland has set out previously in answers to the Honourable Member for Stockton North and the Honourable Member for Reyleigh and Wickford (UIN 63126 and 65213), the main issue here is the application of the Carltona principle in the context of ICOs. The previous Government’s attempt to address this following the 2020 Supreme Court judgment in Adams was found by the Northern Ireland courts to be unlawful and we need to find a better way of reaffirming this principle.

The Government will therefore legislate to address this issue in forthcoming primary legislation when Parliamentary time allows.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the comments of the Chief Commissioner of the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission regarding the independence of the Chief Commissioner of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery and the Commissioner for Investigations.

The Government has confidence in the ability of the Independent Commission’s leadership and staff to effectively deliver for victims and survivors. The Court of Appeal has recognised the ICRIR’s structural independence and wide powers.

However, the confidence of families in the Commission’s work is paramount and that is why the Government is committed to reforming the Commission to further strengthen its powers and independence, as well as to ensure that legacy mechanisms are compliant with human rights obligations.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
8th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what has been the total expenditure on air travel since 5 July 2024 between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for: (1) the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; (2) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; and (3) Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent.

Since 5 July 2024, the total cost of expenditure on air travel between Great Britain and Northern Ireland for the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is £17,972.56, for the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State it is £12,483.01. My total air travel expenditure is £817.27.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government whether the Horticulture Working Group has reported on the movement of seeds to consumers in Northern Ireland from Great Britain as set out in Safeguarding the Union (CP1021); if so, what assessment they have made of the report and its proposed solutions; and what action they have taken in response to each proposed solution.

The Horticulture Working Group identifies and seeks to resolve issues related to the movement of plants and seeds between Great Britain and Northern Ireland under the Windsor Framework. The Group has not provided the Government with a formal report; however, it has discussed the options and requirements for the movement of seeds to consumers in Northern Ireland. The options and requirements are published through guidance on GOV.UK.

The Group has also discussed the expected benefits of the UK-EU SPS Agreement. Once finalised, it will remove a broad and wide-ranging set of SPS and agri-food requirements for goods and plants moving from Great Britain to Northern Ireland.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
17th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the independence of (1) the Chief Commissioner and (2) the Commissioner of Investigations, both of the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.

The Government has confidence in the ability of the Independent Commission’s leadership and staff to effectively deliver for victims and survivors. The Court of Appeal has recognised the ICRIR’s structural independence and wide powers.

However, the confidence of families in the Commission’s work is paramount and that is why the Government is committed to reforming the Commission to further strengthen its powers and independence, as well as to ensure that legacy mechanisms are compliant with human rights obligations.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
16th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what statutory instruments have been introduced since May 2025 to implement dynamic alignment provisions under the Windsor Framework.

All Statutory Instruments are a matter of public record and are available on the Government’s ‘legislation.gov.uk’ website, or on ‘statutoryinstruments.parliament.uk’.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
14th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what proportion of procurement contracts were awarded to UK companies in the 2024-25 financial year.

In the 2024-25 financial year, the Northern Ireland Office has awarded all procurement contracts to UK companies.

Details of central government contracts above £12,000 for procurements commenced before 24 February 2025 are published on Contracts Finder (https://www.gov.uk/contracts-finder).

Contracts procured under the Procurement Act 2023 above £12,000 inc. VAT are published on the Central Digital Platform Find a Tender service. This includes a note of the winning supplier (https://www.find-tender.service.gov.uk/Search).

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what steps the Government took to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne in 2025.

The annual 12th July Commemorations are hugely significant to many in Northern Ireland, as I witnessed first hand during my visit to the County Fermanagh 12th July Parade in Irvinestown in 2024.

Earlier this month, I visited Sloan’s House, the birthplace of the Orange Institution, and took the opportunity to convey my best wishes to all those preparing to mark the 12th. On the 335th Anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, the Government was represented by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP, who attended the County Armagh Parade in Keady.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether his Department took steps to support the commemorations of the Battle of the Boyne in 2025.

The annual 12th July Commemorations are hugely significant to many in Northern Ireland, as I witnessed first hand during my visit to the County Fermanagh 12th July Parade in Irvinestown in 2024.

Earlier this month, I visited Sloan’s House, the birthplace of the Orange Institution, and took the opportunity to convey my best wishes to all those preparing to mark the 12th. On the 335th Anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, the Government was represented by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Fleur Anderson MP, who attended the County Armagh Parade in Keady.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether he plans to attend parades in Northern Ireland on 12 July 2026.

The 12th of July is a day of cultural and historical significance to many in Northern Ireland. We do not share advance details of Northern Ireland Office Ministers’ movements.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
15th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant the Answer of 30 June 2025 to Question 62482, when he received the review of post-Brexit trading arrangements.

Lord Murphy provided the final report of the Independent Review on 9 July 2025, in line with the Terms of Reference for the Review.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
8th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government how many officials and special advisers travelled with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland during his visit to the United States of America for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations in March; and what were the associated costs, including flights and accommodation.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland travelled to Washington accompanied by two special advisors and three officials.

Data on ministers’ overseas travel and on senior civil servants’ business expenses is published on a quarterly basis. The latest publication can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nio-ministerial-gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-july-to-september-2024.

Information for the period January to May 2025 is available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/nio-ministerial-gifts-hospitality-travel-and-meetings-january-to-march-2025.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
8th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government on how many occasions each of the following has stayed overnight in Northern Ireland since 5 July 2024: (1) the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; (2) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland; and (3) Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent.

Since 5 July 2024, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Parliamentary Under Secretary of State have travelled regularly across Northern Ireland to undertake official business.

The Secretary of State has travelled to Northern Ireland 42 times since 5 July 2024. The Parliamentary Under Secretary of State has travelled to Northern Ireland 34 times, and I have travelled to Northern Ireland three times.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
8th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what has been the total expenditure on overseas visits since 5 July 2024 by each of (1) the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, (2) the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and (3) Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent.

Since 5 July 2024, the Department has incurred expenditure of £9,728.99 for overseas travel undertaken by the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland. A total expenditure of £4,968.33 has been incurred for overseas travel undertaken by the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State. No such expenditure has been incurred for myself.


Data on ministers’ overseas travel and on senior civil servants’ business expenses is published on a quarterly basis.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)
16th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 8 July 2025 to Question 64618 on UK Internal Trade: Northern Ireland, whether he has received the first report of the Independent Monitoring Panel; and when he plans to publish it.

The Government has not yet received the initial report of the Independent Monitoring Panel, whose first monitoring period ended on 30 June. We expect to receive the Panel’s report in due course and will publish it in accordance with the existing commitment to do so.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
16th Jul 2025
To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, pursuant to the Answer of 8 July 2025 to Question 64617 on the Independent Review on the Windsor Framework, whether he received the Independent Review of the Windsor Framework by 9 July 2025; and when he plans to publish it.

Lord Murphy provided the final report of the Independent Review to the Government on 9 July 2025. The Government will publish it in full accordance with its existing obligations to do so.

Hilary Benn
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
9th Jul 2025
To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to resolve the dispute over the Drumcree parade, and whether they plan to permit the Orangemen to march through Garvaghy Road and other areas.

The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland recently met with officers from Portadown District LOL No.1 and appreciated the opportunity to hear their views on the annual Drumcree parade. The Parades Commission is the independent public body overseeing public processions in Northern Ireland and the Secretary of State encouraged the group to engage with the Commission.

Baroness Anderson of Stoke-on-Trent
Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)