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British Irish Citizenship Rights Act - Second Reading of the Bill
26 January 2024
Lead MP
Gavin Robinson
Debate Type
Bill Debate
Tags
Northern Ireland
Other Contributors: 7
At a Glance
Gavin Robinson raised concerns about british irish citizenship rights act - second reading of the bill in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The Bill seeks to allow individuals born in the Republic of Ireland but residing in the United Kingdom to attain UK citizenship without having to pay a naturalisation fee or complete a 'Life in the UK' test. This is seen as reciprocating the rights granted to UK citizens living in the Republic of Ireland under the Belfast agreement and addressing a historical anomaly dating back to 1948 when the British Nationality Act removed such entitlements for those born in the Republic after that date.
Gavin Robinson
DUP
Belfast East
Robinson moved Second Reading and argued for the Bill, highlighting its historical context and the long-standing efforts by colleagues to address citizenship rights. He emphasised that individuals born in the Republic of Ireland but living in Northern Ireland should be able to attain UK citizenship without additional costs or tests, reflecting a special relationship between the two nations.
Brereton congratulated Robinson on introducing an important Bill that addresses identity and everyday rights of individuals. He emphasised the significance of allowing people born in the Republic of Ireland to attain British citizenship due to historical ties.
Fiona Bruce
Con
Congleton
Supports the Bill, acknowledging the sensitivity of identity issues for constituents who identify as British but have an Irish passport. Argues that administrative rules should apply fairly across the UK and respects the points made by Gavin Robinson.
Stephen Kinnock
Lab
Aberavon Maesteg
Supports the Bill, arguing it addresses unresolved citizenship rights for Northern Ireland residents born in the Republic after 1948. Questions the fairness of current fees and suggests waiving mandatory 'Life in the UK' test and ceremony requirements.
Tom Pursglove
Con
South Suffolk
The hon. Member for South Suffolk congratulates the lead MP and supports the Government's position on the Bill, which will be amended in Committee to include a broader scope of eligibility criteria for Irish citizens wishing to become British citizens. He outlines that these changes aim to address equality concerns while maintaining system integrity.
Gavin Robinson
DUP
Belfast East
The hon. Member for Belfast East reiterates his appreciation for the support from other Members and acknowledges the constructive engagement with Government officials to refine the Bill's scope, ensuring it reflects the unique position of Irish nationals within the UK.
Eleanor Laing
Con
Epping Forest
The hon. Member for Epping Forest commends the constructive and good-natured debate, noting that the Bill has been read a Second time and will proceed to a Public Bill Committee.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
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