Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 10th April 2019 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

There is always a DUP contest between seniority and youth. On this occasion, I call Mr David Simpson.

[David Simpson]

Thank you, Mr Speaker.

With all the discussions that the Secretary of State has had with the various parties, I am sure she has come to the conclusion that the only party that is holding progress back is Sinn Féin. We in this part of the House would form a Government in the morning.

[Karen Bradley]

You are probably not aware, Mr Speaker, that I managed to offend the hon. Gentleman in the Tea Room earlier, so I will point out that you allowed youth to win on this occasion.

Of course I have met all the party leaders and all the main parties in Northern Ireland. I do believe that there is a willingness to see devolution restored, and I want to see that at the earliest opportunity.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 21st March 2018 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Order. There is a considerable hubbub in the Chamber, which is arguably discourteous to the people of Northern Ireland and certainly unfair on Members from Northern Irish constituencies. Let us have a respectful hearing for Mr David Simpson.

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

The Secretary of State will be aware of the European health card system. Does she envisage that system continuing when we leave the European Union, or will there be some other arrangement?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 26th October 2016 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Order. We are discussing matters appertaining to Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland Members must be heard.

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

I am sure that the Secretary of State would agree that the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of the businesses in Northern Ireland, especially the small and medium-sized enterprises, are second to none, and that whatever they face with Brexit, they are up for the challenge.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 25th November 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I understand the sense of anticipation in the Chamber at this time on a Wednesday, but I point out that we are talking about the legacy of Northern Ireland’s past. Out of respect for the people of Northern Ireland, if for no other reason, a seemly atmosphere would be appreciated. Let us hear Mr David Simpson and the Minister’s reply.

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

I am sure the Secretary of State will agree that, whatever settlement is agreed on the legacy of Northern Ireland, the victims are paramount in this, as has already been mentioned. Does she agree that no one, but no one, should be allowed to rewrite the history of Northern Ireland when we make that settlement?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Thursday 5th November 2015 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Notably in the company of the hon. Member for Lichfield (Michael Fabricant).

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

Will the Minister give the House some details of what discussions he has had with supermarkets in relation to food waste, and will he welcome the announcement by KFC who have done a deal with the Salvation Army to help hand out food so it is not wasted?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 29th October 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

May I just gently point out to the House that we have a lot of questions to get through and we need to speed up?

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

2. What the geographical remit will be of the recently announced panel to discuss parading disputes in Northern Ireland.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 6th March 2013 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Order. The hon. Gentleman is even more popular than he knew. Let us hear from him.

[David Simpson]

Thank you, Mr Speaker. What consideration has the Secretary of State given to bringing forward an amendment to the Northern Ireland Bill to remove the Parades Commission, which is seen by many as part of the problem and not the solution?

Equal Marriage Consultation

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Tuesday 11th December 2012 Commons Chamber

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Was the hon. Gentleman in the Chamber at the start of the statement? He was. We must hear him. I call Mr David Simpson.

[David Simpson]

Further to a previous question, if a school teacher who teaches religious education believes that the Bible teaches that this act is wrong and tells her pupils that, will she be protected?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 16th May 2012 Commons Chamber

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

Although it is well and good to encourage the creative industries in Northern Ireland to create short-term employment on some occasions, what can the Minister do to encourage the small to medium-sized companies in Northern Ireland that are currently on their knees? [Interruption.]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. The House must calm down. It is difficult even for the Minister to hear the question. Let us hear the reply.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between John Bercow and David Simpson

Wednesday 7th March 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Speaker]

Order. There are far too many noisy private conversations taking place in the Chamber. As a matter of courtesy to the people of Northern Ireland, it would be good to have a bit of hush.

[David Simpson (Upper Bann) (DUP)]

I am sure the Minister will agree that inward investment into Northern Ireland is always welcome, but we must not forget small indigenous businesses that have been there for many years. [Interruption.] Will he join me in welcoming the £30-million investment by the Asda group in one site in my constituency, which is in an area that has not had investment for 35 years? [Interruption.]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. It would be good if we could hear the reply. The House must come to order.