Stephen Farry
MP for North Down
Alliance
Questions Asked by This MP
Parliamentary questions and government responses.
Response classifications show how directly each question was answered.
Approval of Harland & Wolff's export development guarantee is crucial for consolidating progress. Will the Prime Minister ensure this approval is achieved?
Context
Harland & Wolff is an iconic shipbuilding company in the UK, having invested millions to save four shipyards from administration.
Rishi Sunak
The Government are committed to supporting the UK shipbuilding sector. We are working closely with Harland & Wolff on its request for a UK Export Finance-guaranteed loan, which is under consideration.
Assessment
Specific commitment to ensuring approval was not given, though it is under consideration.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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I thank the Prime Minister for the £3.3 billion financial package that is now available to any restored Northern Ireland Executive; however, we still need a discussion around the long-term financial framework before the next spending review. At present, Northern Ireland's public services are in a huge crisis, especially health, with urgent public sector pay pressures that must be addressed. Last month, the Secretary of State said that the negotiations with the Democratic Unionist party over the Windsor framework had concluded. Does the Prime Minister recognise the real dangers of continued drift in Northern Ireland and the urgent need for Northern Ireland to have a Government?
Context
A £3.3 billion financial package was announced for the Northern Irish Executive, but ongoing negotiations with the DUP are needed to address public sector pay pressures and restore the local government.
Rishi Sunak
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. Our focus has always been on delivering for the people of Northern Ireland, who rightly expect and deserve their locally elected decision-makers to address the issues that matter to them. We have held talks with the DUP and believe that significant progress has been made, and that there is now a very good basis for the Executive to be restored. I thank him for his comments about the £3 billion financial package. With that, there is a real chance to restore the Executive, resolve pay for public sector workers rapidly, and get Northern Ireland and its public services moving again.
Session: PMQs
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Nine months on from the Windsor framework, I thank the Prime Minister for his ongoing efforts to restore the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive. However, if and when the institutions are restored, they will still be plagued by the same structural weaknesses that have seen repeated collapses and unfairness on things such as designations. This week, the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee published a report calling for a review of the Good Friday agreement. Many architects of the agreement, such as Tony Blair, John Major and Bertie Ahern, have recognised the case for reform. Will the Prime Minister commit to an early review of the agreement to improve its stability, effectiveness and fairness?
Context
The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee has called for a review of the Good Friday agreement to address structural weaknesses.
Rishi Sunak
I recognise the hon. Member's campaigning on this issue and I have great respect for his position. Indeed, we have spoken on a number of occasions both here and on my visits to Northern Ireland. My focus right now is on getting the institutions up and running, and my overarching priority is to get public services in Northern Ireland back on track, which I know is an ambition that he and I share. Any reform of institutions is best dealt with with the support of all parts of the community.
Assessment
Commitment to review
Focus Right Now
Best Dealt With
Session: PMQs
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Four months after the welcome Windsor framework, there is still no restored Northern Ireland Executive or Assembly, and we are facing an unprecedented budget crisis. This situation is untenable, and it is getting worse every day. The Government's approach seems to be to wait to see whether something happens, rather than to lead from the front. So will the Prime Minister confirm that he is willing to work with the Northern Ireland parties on a financial package for a restored Executive? Will he work more closely with the Irish Government to try to drive a process, including putting reform of the institutions on the agenda, so that those who want to govern Northern Ireland can do so?
Context
The MP expressed concern about the lack of a restored Northern Ireland Executive or Assembly, facing an unprecedented budget crisis.
Rishi Sunak
I thank the hon. Gentleman for his engagement with me and the Government during this process. I share his frustration, and our focus remains on delivering for the people of Northern Ireland, who expect and deserve their locally elected decision makers to address the issues that matter to them most. I thank him for his kind words about the Windsor framework and how it allows us to move forward. For many years, we have recognised the particular challenges facing Northern Ireland, which is why we have provided more than £7 billion of funding, on top of the Barnett block grant, since 2014.
Assessment
Did not confirm willingness to work directly with Irish Government or provide specific financial package details
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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Will the Prime Minister and Chancellor work with the Northern Ireland parties on a financial package to transform Northern Ireland?
Context
The Northern Ireland Executive faces budget cuts, which will affect public services transformation and a focus on key areas like health, education, skills, and infrastructure.
Rishi Sunak
We appreciate constructive involvement from the hon. Gentleman in the Windsor framework discussions and will work closely with Northern Irish parties on wide-ranging issues, including the public finances.
Assessment
Specific financial package details for Northern Ireland transformation
Vague Commitment
Session: PMQs
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What steps can the Prime Minister take to inject momentum into those negotiations? Can I encourage him to visit Northern Ireland as soon as possible—preferably before Christmas—to engage with local stakeholders?
Context
There is growing frustration and concern about the slow progress in talks between the UK and the European Union on resolving issues with the Northern Ireland protocol.
Rishi Sunak
The Foreign Secretary and Vice-President Šefčovič are in regular dialogue, and the PM is interested in visiting Northern Ireland to engage with stakeholders.
Assessment
A specific timeline or detailed steps for injecting momentum into negotiations was not provided.
Session: PMQs
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With Northern Ireland facing numerous challenges, will the PM apologize for his legacy there?
Context
Only 5% of people trust the UK government, citing issues such as power sharing collapse, Good Friday agreement undermining, and an unwanted protocol Bill.
Boris Johnson
A Bill to fix the problem of the protocol is being prepared. I accept that there is a problem and hope that the whole House will support it.
Assessment
Did not apologize for his legacy or directly address Northern Ireland issues
General Statements
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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How can the PM stand over a commitment to all aspects of the Good Friday agreement when the Justice Secretary is about to publish a Bill that unpicks and disapplies the Human Rights Act in domestic law?
Context
The Prime Minister has made clear his commitment to all aspects of the Good Friday agreement, including the European convention on human rights being part of domestic law.
Boris Johnson
The hon. Member is mistaken; he will find an error in what he said when the Justice Secretary makes his statement.
Session: PMQs
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The Government has decided on a 3.1% increase in universal credit and other benefits despite inflation being around 7%, leading to real-terms cuts in benefits. Given changing circumstances, will you reconsider this decision?
Context
The question highlights the Government's decision to set a 3.1% increase in universal credit despite inflation being at around 7%, leading to real-terms cuts in benefits. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, Trussell Trust, and others have pointed out the severe consequences for millions of people.
Dominic Raab
The Government has provided a £20 billion package for cost of living issues, including raising energy bills and personal tax thresholds. Universal credit is being increased to give nearly 2 million families an extra £1,000 per year.
Assessment
Did not commit to reconsidering the increase in benefit despite high inflation
Cost Of Living Issues Under Constant Review
Session: PMQs
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Today's apology is too little, too late. My constituents in North Down and people across the UK feel betrayed by the Prime Minister. We have had more than 150,000 deaths from covid over the past couple of years, and we have seen standards in public life trashed. For once, can the Prime Minister do the honourable thing and resign?
Context
Constituents in North Down feel betrayed by the Prime Minister. There have been more than 150,000 deaths from COVID-19 over two years.
Boris Johnson
I understand the hon. Gentleman's feelings about the effect of this pandemic on the country, and I certainly grieve for everybody who has died and who has suffered. On his political point, can I propose that he waits for the inquiry to report?
Assessment
The specific request for resignation was not addressed.
Waiting For The Inquiry
Session: PMQs
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The Government's green new deal is insufficient to meet carbon reduction targets. Yet, they are considering investing in the Cambo oilfield and other oil wells. How can this be reconciled with pledges to cease funding such companies?
Context
International industry warns against new oil and gas exploitation if carbon neutrality targets are not met.
Dominic Raab
Launched North Sea transition deal, secured record investment in wind power, and announced £550 million ODA for developing countries to meet net zero. We have a world-leading hydrogen strategy.
Assessment
Did not address position on new oilfields or funding pledges
Global Leadership
Wind Power Investment
Session: PMQs
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Today may well be a watershed after which we can stop talking about the protocol in constitutional and identity terms, instead working through general problems for pragmatic solutions. Will the Prime Minister also call for calm ahead of the marching season?
Context
The High Court in Belfast upheld the Government's view on the Northern Ireland protocol. A joint EU-UK agreement is expected to extend grace periods around chilled meats.
Boris Johnson
Yes, I do indeed hope that all of these problems can be fixed and we can move on. The EU should remove all problems associated with their application of the protocol.
Assessment
The questioner asked specifically about calling for calm ahead of the marching season. The PM did not directly address this point.
Under Review
Session: PMQs
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With the closure of the EU settlement scheme and lack of clarity from the Home Office regarding guidance on late applications, what will happen to those who miss the deadline and face potential illegal working legislation? Can I be assured that no criminal liability will apply?
Context
The EU settlement scheme closes on June 30th, leaving some concerned about legal implications for late applicants.
Boris Johnson
I am sure the law will be merciful, but so far 5.4 million EU nationals have successfully applied to the scheme.
Assessment
The Prime Minister avoided committing to specific legal assurances for those who miss the deadline.
I Am Sure The Law Will Be Extremely Merciful
Session: PMQs
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Many independent countries, from Switzerland to New Zealand, have bilateral veterinary agreements with the European Union and face lower non-tariff barriers than the UK, despite our very high standards. With the Food and Drink Federation reporting a massive drop in UK food exports—over 90% in some areas—and with sanitary and phytosanitary checks constituting the main challenge for the Northern Ireland protocol, surely the Prime Minister should be making it a priority to negotiate a bespoke UK-EU veterinary agreement?
Context
Independent countries have bilateral veterinary agreements with the EU that lower non-tariff barriers, but UK food exports have dropped over 90% in some areas.
Boris Johnson
That is exactly why we put in temporary and technical measures to allow free trade to continue across the whole of the UK. It is very important for those who object to the measures that we have taken that the protocol should uphold the principle of east-west trade, as well as north-south trade, and that is exactly what we are trying to do.
Assessment
Specific request for a bespoke UK-EU veterinary agreement
We Put In Temporary And Technical Measures
Uphold The Principle Of East-West Trade
Session: PMQs
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In upcoming talks with the EU, will the Prime Minister prioritise a UK-EU veterinary agreement to ease implementation of the Northern Ireland protocol?
Context
The Northern Ireland protocol is in place and there are ongoing negotiations with the EU.
Boris Johnson
We think it is very important that the protocol should not place unnecessary barriers—or barriers of any kind—down the Irish sea. We seek to make sure there are no such barriers down the Irish sea.
Assessment
Did not address whether a veterinary agreement would be prioritised in talks with EU
Changed Subject
Session: PMQs
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The Northern Ireland business community is extremely concerned that it is now impossible to be ready to fully implement the protocol from 1 January. Its top priority is to ask the EU for an adjustment or grace period. Will the Prime Minister give his support to this ask?
Context
Northern Ireland business community is concerned about implementing the protocol from January 1, requesting an adjustment or grace period.
Boris Johnson
Of course we are not going to extend the transition period, but we want to make practical arrangements to help businesses in Northern Ireland. We have agreed a one-year adjustment period so there is no disruption to the flow of medicines and launched a £200 million trader support service.
Assessment
The specific ask for an extension was not directly addressed, only that practical arrangements will be made
Session: PMQs
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If every vote is counted in the US election, it is likely that Joe Biden will be the victor. The Prime Minister has a major challenge to build relationships with any incoming Administration. Therefore, in the light of Joe Biden's entirely correct analysis of the impact on the Good Friday agreement of the United Kingdom Internal Market Bill, how quickly will the Prime Minister recognise the inevitable and remove those clauses from the Bill?
Context
Concerns about Joe Biden's analysis of the impact on the Good Friday agreement due to UK Internal Market Bill.
Boris Johnson
The UK Internal Market Bill is a vital part of the armature—the skeletal structure—of the whole UK economy as we leave the European Union, and it ensures that goods and services placed on the market are available throughout the UK on the same terms.
Assessment
No commitment to remove clauses from Bill
Session: PMQs
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Exactly six months from today, the Northern Ireland protocol will come into operation. The Government have recognised that it will involve checks and infrastructure with regard to regulation. Will he commit to providing clarity on how these processes will work in detail before the end of the summer?
Context
The Northern Ireland Protocol will involve checks and infrastructure which the business community is seeking detailed answers about.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson
It is very clear from the existing text of the protocol that Northern Ireland is, and remains, a part of the customs territory of the United Kingdom. There should be unfettered access between all parts of the UK, and that is what we are going to ensure.
Session: PMQs
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Will the Secretary of State consider releasing elements of a £3.3 billion financial package to address public sector pay pressures?
Context
A financial package of £3.3 billion was proposed to address the crisis in public services.
Chris Heaton-Harris
The package is fair and generous, but funds are tied to a restored Executive budget from this place, not available otherwise.
Session: Restoration of Power Sharing
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A fiscal floor is vital to Northern Ireland. Can the Secretary of State ensure that any fiscal floor is driven by evidence, based on the work of the Northern Ireland Fiscal Council, draws on the work of Professor Holtham in Wales, and properly reflects the devolution of policing and justice, as happened in 2010 around need?
Context
The MP seeks to ensure that any fiscal floor introduced is driven by evidence and based on previous work, specifically the devolution of policing and justice.
Chris Heaton-Harris
There is always some debate on the basis of need, and the Fiscal Council outlined what it should be in its eyes. In general principles, the answer is yes. A lot of conversations are to be had, and the Fiscal Council helpfully published a report earlier this year, but I remind the hon. Gentleman that the proposal for Wales took over seven years to negotiate.
Session: Fiscal Floor
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What assessment have the Government made of the potential merits of introducing a fiscal floor for Northern Ireland?
Context
The MP is concerned about the potential benefits of a fiscal floor for Northern Ireland, which has been discussed by other MPs and organizations.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I thank the hon. Member for the proposals that he and his party have shared with me regarding these matters, as well as those of the hon. Member for Belfast East (Gavin Robinson). I read his article in The Irish Times earlier this morning with great interest, but he will know that such change is not exactly the silver bullet and will need some negotiation.
Session: Fiscal Floor
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Asked if the Government will proactively market Northern Ireland's dual market access under the Windsor framework at next week's investment conference.
Context
The Windsor framework provides unique opportunities for Northern Ireland's economic development, including market access and free trade agreements.
Steven Baker
Confirmed proactive marketing of dual market access. Will chair a session on this, emphasising UK and EU market access alongside free trade agreements like CPTPP.
Session: Economic Trends
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Can the Minister elaborate on some of the reasons for the delay in bringing forward legislation against conversion therapy?
Context
There has been a five-year wait since the Government promised to legislate on banning conversion practices, and recent promises have not been fulfilled.
Stuart Andrew
I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we are absolutely committed to introducing the Bill in its draft stage as soon as possible. It is a complex matter; however, we want to get it right and present it as soon as possible.
Session: Conversion Practices Legislative Ban
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When will the Government bring forward legislative proposals to ban conversion practices?
Context
The government has committed to legislate against conversion therapy for over five years, with recent promises of spring legislation.
Stuart Andrew
The Government remain committed to publishing a draft Bill on banning conversion practices for pre-legislative scrutiny by a Joint Committee of both Houses in this parliamentary Session.
Session: Conversion Practices Legislative Ban
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In light of the Climate Change Committee's concern that the UK is falling behind on a range of net zero commitments including skills, and noting that new green jobs require a skilled workforce as part of the green new deal, will the Government commit to bringing forward the workforce plan from 2024 to some time later this year?
Context
The Climate Change Committee has expressed concern about the UK falling behind on net zero commitments, particularly regarding skills. The current workforce plan is not due until 2024, which raises concerns given the urgency.
Amanda Solloway
We are working as quickly as we can on ensuring this. The new skills required are beneficial for the UK economy, so we are keen to work with the green jobs delivery group and the Department for Education in looking at apprenticeships and how we can push this forward as quickly as possible.
Session: Net Zero Projects Skills
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What assessment he has made with Cabinet colleagues of the adequacy of workforce skills for delivering net zero projects.
Context
The question arises from the need to assess whether the current workforce has adequate skills to support net zero initiatives.
Amanda Solloway
We recognise that having the right skills within the workforce is critical, which is why we established the green jobs delivery group.
Session: Net Zero Projects Skills
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Does the Minister recognise that Ireland is marketed internationally as a single entity with respect to tourism? Does he understand that treating movements on the island of Ireland the same as any entries into the UK from the rest of the world is not fair and does not recognise the specific circumstances that exist on the island?
Context
Concern about treating movements from the Republic of Ireland to Northern Ireland the same as any entries into the UK.
Steven Baker
The Government recognises elements of what was said, including conversations with Irish Government at the British-Irish Intergovernmental Conference. The position is to not create a loophole through the ETA scheme but ensure clear communication. Exemptions exist for third-country nationals ordinarily resident in Ireland and UK or Irish citizens under the common travel area.
Session: Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme Tourism
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Can I seek an assurance from the Government that they will work closely with Northern Ireland's business community over the detailed operational guidance?
Context
The Windsor framework is a settlement but needs detailed operational guidance, especially for the red and green lanes.
Leo Docherty
I am pleased to report that we have issued guidance. We will continue to work with businesses as the green lane rolls out between September this year and September next.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister work with the Home Office to try to find a practical solution to that problem?
Context
The MP asks about the application of electronic travel authorisation to Northern Ireland's tourism sector.
Steven Baker
We are in conversation with Home Office colleagues. The Government is determined to ensure tourists understand UK immigration requirements and need travel authorisation, taking concerns of authorities seriously.
Session: Investment in Northern Ireland
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With around 1,000 jobs and 17,000 placements at stake in Northern Ireland, the shared prosperity fund is too little, too late for those organisations that are currently availing themselves of European social fund support. Can the Minister ensure that, at the very least, decisions on funding will be taken before the end of March to allow successful bids to continue without interruption?
Michael Gove
We will do everything we can to expedite that funding to Northern Ireland.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Secretary of State listen to voices across Northern Ireland MPs and other stakeholders urging him to act through Westminster to make the Organ and Tissue Donation (Deemed Consent) Act effective in Northern Ireland?
Context
The Organ and Tissue Donation (Deemed Consent) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 was not passed due to the absence of a functioning devolved government, affecting public health policy.
Chris Heaton-Harris
I was honoured to meet Dáithí and his family last week. I obviously understand the position in which the family find themselves. There is a piece of secondary legislation that should have been passed by the Northern Ireland Assembly. The easiest route for this to happen—the quickest route by which Dáithí can get the result he requires, through the passage of that secondary legislation—is via the Assembly coming back and passing it, but we are looking at all options. I have asked officials in my Department to see what we can do.
Session: Governance
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What steps the Government are taking to help ensure good governance in Northern Ireland?
Context
The question arises from the lack of a functioning devolved government in Northern Ireland, leading to uncertainty about how public services are managed.
Chris Heaton-Harris
Northern Ireland is best governed through locally elected and accountable Ministers operating in the devolved institutions. In their absence, we introduced the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act and published guidance to provide Northern Ireland Departments with the support that they need to make limited but necessary decisions to maintain the delivery of public services that operate in the public interest.
Session: Governance
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Around 40,000 people seeking asylum are stuck in hotels. However, Home Office policy allows decisions on refugee status to be communicated only to those who have been dispersed. Surely that is absurd and counterproductive. When will the policy change?
Context
There are 40,000 people seeking asylum stuck in hotels.
Robert Jenrick
We are considering this issue. The policy was put in place some time ago, for good reason: so that those local authorities that were bearing a disproportionate number of the individuals in hotels and temporary accommodation did not take a corresponding number of people were they to be granted asylum. We are looking into that at the moment.
Session: Topical Questions
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Most people and businesses in Northern Ireland accept the need for the Northern Ireland protocol, but they want pragmatic solutions. While conscious of sensitivities, I ask the Foreign Secretary to deepen engagement with the Northern Ireland Business Brexit Working Group to road-test emerging solutions ensuring practical application on the ground.
Context
The Northern Ireland protocol negotiations are ongoing, addressing various challenges for the region.
James Cleverly
I am grateful for the hon. Gentleman's positive comments about the tone of current conversations with the EU; professional but discreet negotiations are key to success. During my trip, I met a group raising specific concerns, and we took careful note of those issues.
Session: Topical Questions
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European social fund projects in Northern Ireland face a financial cliff edge. Over 1,000 jobs are at risk and over 17,000 service users fear for their future. Can the Secretary of State give me an assurance that there will be an investment plan and a process in place to give those organisations the chance to apply for shared prosperity fund support ahead of next April?
Context
Over 1,000 jobs are at risk in Northern Ireland due to the ending of European social fund funding.
Michael Gove
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for raising this issue, and I will work with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland to make sure that there is an investment plan in place.
Session: Topical Questions
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What businesses in Northern Ireland want, alongside political stability, is dual market access. As well as working to ensure that businesses have access to the rest of the UK market, will the Minister ensure that access to the European market will be preserved and that the Government will do nothing to compromise it?
Context
The question addresses the need for dual market access, both within the UK and in Europe.
Steven Baker
We are committed to maintaining dual market access. We hope to negotiate a position with the European Union in which that is possible, while preserving the east-west strand of the Belfast/Good Friday agreement. We want to restore the constitutional status of Northern Ireland while ensuring that market access.
Session: Trade in the UK
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As the Chancellor will be aware, the energy bill support scheme cannot currently be extended to Northern Ireland due to the absence of the Northern Ireland Executive, so can he update the House on what steps he is taking to put in place measures to ensure that the people of Northern Ireland can avail themselves of that support? I appreciate that it is not due until October, but there is a long lead-in time required in that respect.
Context
The energy bill support scheme is currently unavailable in Northern Ireland due to the absence of a functioning executive. The question arises from the need for equivalent financial assistance.
Rishi Sunak
I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we want to ensure that equivalent support is provided to all Northern Irish families, and that it will be of the same value. We are currently in discussions with a variety of organisations to see how best to deliver that support, but I can give him the reassurance that it will be there in the same quantity, in the same value and at the same time.
Session: Cost of Living Northern Ireland
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What fiscal steps he is taking to help reduce the impact of rises in the cost of living in Northern Ireland?
Context
Northern Ireland faces specific challenges with the cost of living. The question arises from the need for targeted fiscal measures to assist local households.
Rishi Sunak
The UK Government are providing £37 billion-worth of support to help families with the cost of living, and most of that support is being provided directly to households across the United Kingdom. Indeed, we are legislating to ensure that our one-off payments to those on welfare that are worth up to £650 can be paid directly to households and families in Northern Ireland.
Session: Cost of Living Northern Ireland
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The business community in Northern Ireland is clear that they want to see mutually agreed solutions, and that those are the only way in which they can protect their access to the EU single market. The key ingredient in all this is trust and partnership. The Minister's Bill is entirely counterproductive in that respect, so what is her strategy for getting back around the negotiating table with the European Union to find those mutually agreed outcomes?
Context
Business community in Northern Ireland wants mutually agreed solutions to protect access to the EU single market. Minister's Bill is seen as counterproductive.
Elizabeth Truss
We are very open to negotiations with the European Union, but they have to be prepared to change the protocol itself. The problems we have with customs and people in Northern Ireland not being able to access the same VAT benefits as people in Great Britain are baked into the protocol itself, and the legislation we have introduced protects the EU single market while enabling free-flowing trade from east to west.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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What recent discussions she has had with (a) EU representatives and (b) the US Administration on the Northern Ireland protocol?
Context
Discussions about changes to the Northern Ireland protocol have been ongoing between UK and EU representatives.
Elizabeth Truss
We have been clear with the EU that the Northern Ireland protocol needs to change in order to uphold the Belfast/Good Friday agreement, ensure free flow of goods from east to west, and protect the north-south relationship. Our preference is for a negotiated solution, but in the absence of the EU being willing to change the protocol, we are pressing ahead with legislation.
Session: Northern Ireland Protocol
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The Foreign Secretary is about to make a statement regarding unilateral changes to the Northern Ireland protocol that risk unpicking the trade and co-operation agreement and a trade war with the European Union. I understand that the Chancellor had been a voice for restraint and caution in Cabinet. Why has his view not prevailed?
Context
The Chancellor's view of restraint and caution on the Northern Ireland protocol may not have prevailed.
Lucy Frazer
I do not want to foreshadow what the Foreign Secretary may or may not say in her statement, but I assure the hon. Gentleman that with regard to the protocol, the Government's overriding priority has been and continues to be preserving peace and stability in Northern Ireland.
Session: Topical Questions
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Will the Minister reassess the 3.1% universal credit uplift given recent CPI increases? Families face real cuts of over £500 annually due to inflation exceeding 7%. Many families are already struggling with heating and food bills, making next winter a critical period.
Context
With inflation at an all-time high and the current benefit uprates inadequate, families are struggling to make ends meet. The government's plan for winter support has been criticized as insufficient.
Lucy Frazer
We have introduced measures such as £20 billion support for families. Energy prices are fixed until autumn, and significant funds are being allocated now.
Session: Cost of Living Increase Universal Credit
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What discussions has the Minister had with Cabinet colleagues regarding reviewing the universal credit inflationary uplift due to rising costs of living? Millions of families depend on benefits like Universal Credit. Recent inflation is over 7%, but the uprate was set at 3.1%. The Joseph Rowntree Foundation and Trussell Trust highlight real jeopardy for families facing cuts of over £500 annually.
Context
With the cost of living increasing, millions of UK families are facing financial hardships. The current universal credit uprate is set at 3.1%, based on CPI in September 2021, while recent inflation exceeds 7%. Multiple organizations warn about severe impacts.
Lucy Frazer
CPI has been used as the default measure for benefits since 2011. The Government is providing £20 billion support, including £9 billion for energy bills and a reduced taper rate allowing families to keep an additional £1,000 annually.
Session: Cost of Living Increase Universal Credit
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Is that pledge going to happen in the next two weeks?
Context
The Government have promised to legislate for the language and culture package of New Decade, New Approach before the Assembly rises for elections.
Brandon Lewis
The hon. Gentleman makes a fair point. I am absolutely committed to ensuring that we deliver on our promise, as is the Prime Minister, as we set out last summer, and indeed that we deliver on all our commitments in the New Decade, New Approach deal, which brought Stormont back.
Session: Northern Ireland (Ministers, Elections and Petitions of Concern) Act 2022
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The Government published their Command Paper last July, the European Union published four papers last October, and I understand that the Government have tabled a revised legal text in the negotiations. Does the Secretary of State recognise that there is a desire among businesses in Northern Ireland for much greater transparency around the UK Government's negotiating objectives?
Context
There is a desire among businesses for greater transparency on the government's negotiation goals related to the Northern Ireland protocol.
Brandon Lewis
We have been very transparent and clear with businesses. The Minister for Europe and I, and indeed the Foreign Secretary, have met and engaged with businesses, as we will be doing tomorrow, and outlined exactly what our objectives are: to deliver what businesses in Northern Ireland want, which is to rectify the problems that are hampering businesses in Northern Ireland.
Session: Engagement with Businesses Northern Ireland Protocol
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What engagement has the Government had with Northern Ireland businesses on the Northern Ireland protocol since 1 January 2022?
Context
The question arises from a lack of clear information regarding the government's engagement and transparency towards Northern Ireland businesses concerning the Northern Ireland protocol.
Brandon Lewis
My engagement with the Northern Ireland business community is extensive. Just this week I have been in Northern Ireland engaging directly with businesses, as I do every week, to discuss the impacts of the protocol as well as any wider concerns or issues.
Session: Engagement with Businesses Northern Ireland Protocol
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Given that the European Union will remain the UK's largest export market for the foreseeable future, should not the priority be to remove all remaining non-tariff barriers, especially to help our UK agrifood exporters? Also, does the Minister recognise that other free trade agreements risk restricting the nature of any EU veterinary agreement to one based on equivalence rather than alignment?
Context
The UK's largest export market remains the EU, prompting concerns about ongoing trade frictions and the impact of free trade agreements on veterinary agreements.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
We are clear that we want goods to be able to travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland without unnecessary barriers, and the Government continue to be in intense discussions with the EU with the aim of delivering significant changes to the protocol. This includes a green channel for goods in and out of Northern Ireland and no further checks or documentation for goods moving between GB and Northern Ireland.
Session: EU Veterinary Agreement
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What assessment have you made of the implications of the Australia and New Zealand free trade agreements for concluding a veterinary agreement with the EU?
Context
The UK has recently signed free trade agreements with Australia and New Zealand, raising questions about the potential impact on future agreements with the EU.
Anne-Marie Trevelyan
Nothing in the UK-Australia or UK-New Zealand agreements prevents the UK from reaching a veterinary agreement with the EU. Our agreements allow the UK to co-operate with both Australia and New Zealand and with the EU to avoid unnecessary sanitary and phytosanitary barriers to trade in agrifood, without constraining the UK's right to regulate in those areas.
Session: EU Veterinary Agreement
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Does the Secretary of State agree that the best way to secure the Union is to ensure that Northern Ireland works, that we build a shared and integrated society and that all traditions in Northern Ireland are equally respected?
Context
The question addresses ensuring a shared and integrated society in Northern Ireland to secure the Union.
Brandon Lewis
Yes, absolutely. An important part of that is looking at how we deliver on areas of the Good Friday agreement that have not yet been delivered on, including things such as integrated education. I think it is still shameful that only 7% of the population benefit from integrated education. There is always more to do, and we can do that working together for the benefit of the whole community of Northern Ireland.
Session: Northern Ireland’s Place in the UK
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A harsh winter is about to hit Afghanistan, and the UN estimates that 23 million people will be at risk of famine. Surely it is a dereliction of duty for the Government not to have the Afghanistan resettlement scheme in place. Many people have been left in limbo as a result, and aid agencies are looking for answers in respect of what is going to happen.
Context
The United Nations estimates that 23 million people in Afghanistan will be at risk of famine during a harsh winter. The Afghanistan resettlement scheme is delayed, leaving many individuals in limbo.
Victoria Atkins
I entirely understand the concern of the hon. Gentleman and, indeed, the House about the situation in Afghanistan but the reality is as it is on the ground. We wish it were otherwise, but it is not, so we are working apace—but carefully—to ensure that when the scheme is launched it works well for the people who are eligible for it and works well over the years in which it will operate.
Session: Topical Questions
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The current focus in addressing the sanitary and phytosanitary issues in relation to the Northern Ireland protocol now seems to be on a bespoke, specific arrangement for Northern Ireland. Is that objective still the position of the UK Government?
Context
The Northern Ireland protocol focuses on sanitary and phytosanitary issues, with a bespoke arrangement proposed.
George Eustice
The position of the UK Government was set out very clearly and comprehensively in the Command Paper we published earlier this summer. We also have specialised committees working with EU and UK officials to resolve some of the technical and veterinary issues. We are clear, however, that we want goods to be able to travel from Great Britain to Northern Ireland without unnecessary barriers in the way.
Session: Topical Questions
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If he will make a statement on his departmental responsibilities. The current focus is on forests and nature-based solutions to climate change.
Context
The UK is set to host the COP26 climate conference in Glasgow, focusing on forests and nature-based solutions.
George Eustice
Next week, the UK will host COP26 in Glasgow. Climate change is one of the greatest challenges facing our planet. My noble Friend Lord Goldsmith and I have held many meetings with countries on the agenda the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has been leading on, specifically in relation to forests and nature-based solutions to climate change. We will be seeking progress on that agenda in the weeks ahead.
Session: Topical Questions
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The primary responsibility for job creation in Northern Ireland lies with the Executive, not the UK Government, so how can the Government justify their approach to the shared prosperity fund, which takes away the spending power that the Executive previously had in relation to EU structural funds, and centralises that, stopping the Executive doing any joined-up investment in skills and job creation?
Context
Concern over the impact of the shared prosperity fund on local job creation and investment.
Conor Burns
The primary responsibility for job creation is private sector business. It is entrepreneurs; it is people who create products and sell them to customers. What we are doing is making sure that businesses in Northern Ireland, as across the rest of the United Kingdom, have the tools to create the jobs and to create wealth and prosperity across the whole of Northern Ireland.
Session: Jobs and Investment
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How many people were called forward for evacuation, how many were evacuated, and how many remain in Afghanistan?
Context
Concern about transparency in evacuation operations outside ARAP and Operation Pitting.
James Cleverly
Since 28 August, over 500 more individuals eligible to come to the UK have been able to leave Afghanistan. More than 400 British nationals and their dependants were assisted to leave on Qatar-chartered flights.
Session: Safe Passage from Afghanistan
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What steps her Department is taking to assist vulnerable Afghans leave Afghanistan to places of safety?
Context
Concern about the safety and well-being of vulnerable Afghans seeking to leave Afghanistan.
James Cleverly
The Government continue to do all they can to ensure safe passage of eligible individuals who wish to leave Afghanistan. The UK has had constructive engagement with near neighbours, led by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon. British nationals are facilitated and supported in their exit from Afghanistan through Qatar Airways flights.
Session: Safe Passage from Afghanistan
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I trust that the Secretary of State is aware of the immense hurt, volume of tears shed, and retraumatised victims in the wake of his statement last week, raising fears that terrorists or former terrorists will go out and almost glorify some of the atrocities they committed with no sanction. How does he respond to these concerns?
Context
The MP noted ongoing concerns about the impact of recent statements on victims in Northern Ireland, including retraumatisation and fears that justice may be undermined.
Brandon Lewis
We need to ensure no moral equivalence between those who harmed others and those who risked their lives to protect others. The information-recovery process is crucial for truth and accountability.
Session: Protecting Veterans from Prosecution
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Does the Secretary of State recognise a trade-off between UK's Brexit and checks down the Irish Sea, impacting tensions?
Context
Brexit-related trade barriers are contributing to political instability in Northern Ireland.
Brandon Lewis
The issues behind recent violence in Northern Ireland are multifaceted. The Government wants to negotiate a practical solution with the EU for a free flow of products between Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
Session: Recent Disorder
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The calming influence of the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster is going to be missed in the post-Brexit discussions with the European Union. How does he see long-term sustainable solutions being found around the Northern Ireland protocol in the light of the damage done to trust as a result of the unilateral extensions of the grace periods?
Context
There are concerns about the long-term sustainability of solutions related to the Northern Ireland protocol, especially following unilateral extensions of grace periods which have damaged trust.
Michael Gove
I am very grateful to the hon. Gentleman. The first thing that I would say is that it is important that we make sure that the interests of all the people of Northern Ireland come first. The decision on grace periods was taken in accordance with the freely expressed wishes of commercial operators in Northern Ireland. It is interesting that Northern Ireland retailers, businesses and so on, without prejudice to their views on Brexit or the protocol, welcomed these pragmatic steps.
Session: Topical Questions
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Other Parliamentary Activity
Debates led and petitions presented.
Electronic Travel Authorisation: Northern Ireland
18 July 2023
Responding: Robert Jenrick
Energy Price Support: Northern Ireland
16 November 2022
Responding: Kevin Hollinrake
Main Concerns
['I am extremely concerned about the impact of delays in support for Northern Ireland households, with a lack of clarity around when that support will arise. The UK Government has yet to clarify whether the £400 energy support scheme and the £100 home heating oil support will be made available to Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is facing unprecedented risks with its collapsed political institutions, high economic inactivity, and reliance on benefits. Disposable incomes are being eroded by rising energy costs, leading to dangerous coping mechanisms such as rationing of central heating and skipping meals. Fuel poverty organisations are overwhelmed, and there is a risk of £300 million in consumer spending power being lost.']
Specific Asks
['I urge the Government to provide assistance and greater clarity on how households will receive the £400 energy support and when it will be delivered. I also ask for a review of their calculation and the level of home heating oil support, and details on how this support is to be delivered.']
Aerospace Industry: Northern Ireland
22 July 2024
Adjournment Debate
Contributed to this debate
Thanking Mr Deputy Speaker for the opportunity to discuss Government support for the aerospace industry in Northern Ireland, Jim Shannon emphasised Northern Ireland's status as an aerospace hub. He ci...
International Health Regulations
14 May 2024
General Debate
Contributed to this debate
Checks on Goods Entering UK
29 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill - Instruction to the Committee on the Post Office (Horizon System) Offences Bill that it has power to make provision in the Bill for it to extend to Northern Ireland.
29 April 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
Defence Spending
24 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Cass Review
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Iran-Israel Update
15 April 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Sub-postmasters Miscarriages of Justice Act (England and Wales) - Clause 1
20 March 2024
Bill Debate
Contributed to this debate
The Bill will quash convictions for those affected by the Post Office Horizon scandal in England and Wales, aiming to right past wrongs by restoring good names automatically upon Royal Assent. It incl...
Post Office Legislation
13 March 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
Israel and Gaza
27 February 2024
Ministerial Statement
Contributed to this debate
18
PMQs Asked
51
Ministerial Questions Asked
138
House of Commons Debates Involved
2
Westminster Hall Debates Led
0
Statements / Bills
0
Petitions Presented
0
Voting Record
Activity Compared to Peers
How does this MP's parliamentary activity compare to the national average across 1457 MPs?
Prime Minister's Questions
+392% above average
This MP:
18
Average:
3.7
Ministerial Questions
+280% above average
This MP:
51
Average:
13.4
Westminster Hall Debates Led
-20% below average
This MP:
2
Average:
2.5
Commons Chamber Debates
+2740% above average
This MP:
138
Average:
4.9
Statements / Bills Proposed
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
9.5
Petitions Presented
-100% below average
This MP:
0
Average:
2.5
Voting Attendance Rate (%)
-100% below average
This MP:
0.0
Average:
69.2
Important Context
- - Ministers answer questions rather than asking them, so have different activity patterns
- - Activity quantity doesn't measure quality or effectiveness of representation
- - Some MPs focus more on constituency work than parliamentary questions
- - Newly elected MPs will have less parliamentary history
About This Page
This page tracks Stephen Farry's parliamentary activity including questions asked, debates (Commons Chamber + Westminster Hall), statements/bills, and petitions presented.