Northern Ireland: National Crime Agency

Baroness Butler-Sloss Excerpts

Tuesday 4th November 2014 Lords Chamber

[Baroness Randerson]

I understand the frustration that the noble Lord expresses, but I can assure him that my right honourable friend the Secretary of State has been constantly involved in this issue and is regularly in discussions with the political parties. However, the noble Lord is correct in drawing attention to the fact that the same protection is not afforded to the people of Northern Ireland while the issue of the NCA is unresolved. I can assure him that we are extremely keen to reach agreement on this.

[Baroness Butler-Sloss (CB)]

My Lords, how long will the Government wait to decide to override what is not being done in Northern Ireland?

[Baroness Randerson]

I think the noble and learned Baroness expresses the same view that has been made clear around the Chamber not just today but in previous discussions that we have had on this issue. It is important that we are given this opportunity to discuss it because our frustration and concern need to be heard in Northern Ireland in order to ensure that all the political parties take this issue very seriously indeed.