Pride in Place

Sorcha Eastwood Excerpts

Wednesday 15th October 2025 Commons Chamber

[Miatta Fahnbulleh]

My hon. Friend is completely right. This is a huge opportunity to bring the community together and for them to be in the driving seat. Therefore, reaching out to all parts of the community is one of the most powerful things that Members of Parliament can do. I have an organising background and this is an organising moment, because it is the ability to bring people—those who are not normally around the table and who cannot normally shape their places—around the table and to give them voice, power and agency.

[Sorcha Eastwood (Lagan Valley) (Alliance)]

Minister, the statement makes reference to engaging with the Northern Ireland Executive. Can you tell me what discussions you have had with my colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive?

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Ms Nusrat Ghani)]

Order. It is not “Can you tell me?”; it is “Can the Minister tell me?”. Yes? Quick!

[Sorcha Eastwood]

Thank you, Madam Deputy Speaker. Can the Minister please tell me what discussions you have had with my colleagues in the Northern Ireland Executive? You will be aware of the fact that the shared prosperity fund, which other Members have referenced, is not being replaced. The local growth situation is already jeopardising jobs in Northern Ireland. Can you make any comment on that, Minister? Thank you.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

Correction twice—it is not “Can you make a comment?” Let us please make sure we get our words right next time around.