Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Julian Smith and Rob Roberts

Wednesday 5th February 2020 Commons Chamber

[Julian Smith]

As the hon. Lady knows, this agreement has already delivered an end to the nurses’ strike in Northern Ireland. Having sat through hours of negotiation and discussion, I say to her that it was always clear that the parties had to prioritise what they wanted from Government. They are about to do that, and I look forward to hearing their plans in due course.

[Rob Roberts (Delyn) (Con)]

6. What recent assessment he has made of the effect on Northern Ireland of the restoration of devolved Government.

--- Later in debate ---

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Julian Smith)]

The “New Decade, New Approach” deal has restored decision making to locally accountable representatives in Northern Ireland and guarantees the Good Friday agreement. It has ended three years of stasis at Stormont and is already having a beneficial effect on Northern Ireland’s citizens.

[Rob Roberts]

Does my right hon. Friend agree that this Conservative Government have demonstrated their commitment to strong devolved government and funding for all of our nations within this United Kingdom?

[Julian Smith]

My hon. Friend is absolutely right: we have delivered in Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, and we are delivering on our commitments to the Union.