Question to the Northern Ireland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what his policy is on the circumstances in which he would establish an independent inquiry into the renewable heat incentive scheme in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

I welcome yesterday’s announcement that a public inquiry into the Renewable Heat Incentive will now go ahead. I believe that this is important to build confidence in the ability of the institutions to deliver and help set the tone for the election to come. This is a devolved issue and it is right and preferable that an inquiry has been agreed at Stormont.

I would encourage full co-operation with the inquiry, and hope that it is able quickly and effectively to establish the facts, and provide assurances to the public. For our part, the Government will do everything we can to support this independent inquiry.