Supports the Minister's emphasis on restoring devolved governance but emphasises the importance of community buy-in for this to succeed.

Agrees that trade access within the UK is a right, not a privilege, and reiterates support for devolved governance but corrects the Minister's wording to avoid misunderstanding.

Expresses concern about civil servants' ability to take decisions within current guidance and suggests there is an impasse which could lead to deferred or managed overspending, both undesirable outcomes.

Proposes bringing in GB civil servants with experience of dynamic change management to help deliver necessary changes within the interim governance structure.

Queries whether proposed new models for funding higher education will protect current hopes of expanding student numbers in Derry, highlighting the need to safeguard educational opportunities.

Raises concern about childcare provision and suggests it may hinder women's employment. Calls for consideration of how interim arrangements can support childcare in Northern Ireland, acknowledging the financial challenges but stressing its importance.

Supports the Bill as necessary for civil servants to run Departments in Northern Ireland without an Executive, emphasising that it is a missed opportunity without accountable local government. Cites need for Government commitment to restore power sharing based on the Windsor framework agreement. Asks for update on implementation and progress from both sides. Welcomes further legislation easing Unionist concerns about Northern Ireland’s place within the UK but asks for clarification on future steps and timing of such legislation.

Supports the Bill as necessary but emphasises the need for political parties to engage and work towards re-establishing a functioning Stormont. Argues for the necessity of leadership and vision similar to what was seen during the Good Friday agreement era, advocating for greater reliance on match funding from Treasury rather than merely asking for additional funds. Expresses concern about the loss of good civil service work under new section 5A if it falls or lapses at the end of the current period with no Executive in place.

Richard Thomson expressed his belief that Northern Ireland is best governed by local MLAs rather than decisions made in Westminster. He highlighted the damage caused by not having an Executive or Assembly in place and stressed that locally elected politicians can make better-informed, legitimate decisions with greater transparency. However, he acknowledged the necessity of the Bill due to the governance gap. Thomson mentioned that without the proper political direction from local representatives, major budget cuts would be required, estimated at £800 million, affecting sectors like education and infrastructure significantly. He criticised the current approach as inadequate for addressing these issues effectively, advocating instead for a swift return of the Assembly and Executive.

Wilson emphasises the financial disparity between Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK, citing specific sector impacts such as education and health. He points out that overspending due to underfunding is exacerbating the problem, leading to budget cuts and service degradation.

Gale briefly intervened to remind Sammy Wilson that Committee consideration will follow the debate, suggesting he is against any discussion beyond Second Reading.

Intervened to argue that Northern Ireland has missed out on inward investment due to fiscal policies in the Republic of Ireland, suggesting that promised benefits from 25 years ago have not materialised.

Intervened to support the call for an independent university in Derry, noting the historical lack of adequate higher education provision in the city despite long-standing campaigns.

Intervened to emphasise that Unionist sensitivities must be respected alongside nationalist ones, arguing for a consensus approach and highlighting how a hard border would have undermined both unionist and nationalist interests.

Robinson criticises the Northern Ireland Office for ignoring strategic opportunities, highlighting that they missed a chance to draft provisions for step-in powers. He mentions new clause 5 which he had tabled to draw attention to the lack of political direction in decision-making processes. Robinson discusses the increase in domestic rates and the impact on revenue raising, estimating that even if every ratepayer paid an additional 50%, it would not cover the shortfall facing Northern Ireland Departments.

Farry agrees with Robinson about the failure of the Northern Ireland Office to address governance gaps, but challenges the DUP's ability to solve issues if they returned to the Executive. He asks for self-reflection within Robinson’s party.

Donaldson supports Robinson's argument and references the work of the Atlas Women's Centre in his constituency, which uses Pathway funding to help young children develop necessary skills for mainstream education.

Mr. Farry outlines his concerns about the current budget crisis and its impact on public services, waiting lists, education, skills development, and economic activity. He highlights the need for an effective Executive government to manage these pressures effectively and suggests the implementation of a transformation package and addressing inefficiencies in the economy.

Expresses concern over budget cuts, particularly highlighting the removal of the Pathway Fund for early years education and its detrimental impact on children's development. Argues that Northern Ireland is being used as a political football and demands continuity funding to support the foundational aspects of society. Emphasises the importance of recognising Unionist viewpoints in finding a solution.

Asked Mr Deputy Speaker if he had been informed of any changes to the business following announcements in The Daily Telegraph and a written ministerial statement about proposed fundamental changes to the Retained EU Law Bill, expressing concern over parliamentary scrutiny.

Responded to Stella Creasy’s point of order by stating that Mr Speaker has repeatedly made it plain that information should be relayed to the House before media announcements, but no indication of a change to business was given.

Emphasised the need for public services in Northern Ireland to continue functioning while calling for proactive solutions from elected officials rather than civil servants, noting the severe pressure on public services and significant budget cuts. She urged the Secretary of State to take steps to ensure a functioning Executive by the next election.

The hon. Member highlights the disparity in budget trajectories between England and Northern Ireland, pointing out that per household, there is a £2,000 difference which disadvantages Northern Irish households.

The hon. Member questions the minister's stance on education choices in Northern Ireland, arguing that there should be options for church-based, grammar school, and integrated education systems, reflecting local preferences.

The hon. Member supports the minister's stance on integrated schools but emphasises the demand for such schools across Northern Ireland and highlights the need for investment to transition from a divided education system, acknowledging funding constraints.