Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, with reference to paragraph 3.4 of the Parades Commission for Northern Ireland Framework Document, whether his Department raised concerns about the activities of the PCNI with its Secretary, requiring explanations and assurances that appropriate action has been taken.

NIO officials maintain regular contact with the Parades Commission Secretariat as part of sponsorship arrangements, and regularly receives information from the Commission regarding corporate matters, such as budgeting and corporate risks. Corporate matters are discussed regularly with the Secretariat.

The Commission’s decision-making regarding parade notifications is independent. In response to recent judicial review proceedings, the Secretary of State commissioned a judge-led review. The review will examine the Commission's decision-making procedures to ensure decisions are evidence-based, transparent, robust and fair, and that procedural defects identified are addressed.