Investment in Northern Ireland 2023-03-22
2023-03-22
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about steps to increase investment in Northern Ireland.
What steps his Department is taking to help increase investment into Northern Ireland?
The Northern Ireland economy has ingredients for success. The Secretary of State visited the US last week, and next week I will visit USA and Canada promoting investment opportunities. We are planning an investment summit.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide specific steps or timeline for increasing investment in Northern Ireland.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about regulatory reform to attract foreign direct investment post-Brexit.
When does he think we will get to the position where we can do that in Northern Ireland, in the same way that Brexit allows us to do it in Great Britain?
On goods, we need an open north-south border. On services regulation, Northern Ireland is subject to UK law and trade agreements, offering opportunities in areas like fintech.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify a timeline for regulatory reform in Northern Ireland post-Brexit.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about ensuring energy infrastructure complements broadband investment in Northern Ireland.
Will the Minister ensure that the energy infrastructure is such to complement that, thereby offering one of the best inward investment and indigenous business opportunities anywhere in the world?
Energy is devolved. The hon. Gentleman should do everything possible to ensure maximum investment in Northern Ireland by restoring devolved institutions.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address the energy infrastructure issue and instead discussed the need for restored devolved institutions.
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The MP asks about passing the Windsor framework to restore balance and encourage inward investment in Northern Ireland.
Does my hon. Friend agree that in restoring the balance of the Belfast agreement the best approach is to pass the Windsor framework today?
The Windsor framework is a dramatic improvement on the protocol. The Government believes it includes compromises but is a step forward for Northern Ireland.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q5
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about the application of electronic travel authorisation to Northern Ireland's tourism sector.
Will the Minister work with the Home Office to try to find a practical solution to that problem?
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.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify a practical solution or timeline for resolving the issue.
Response accuracy
Q6
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP asks about the economic impact of Brexit and if the Windsor framework will mitigate damage to the Northern Irish economy.
Does the Minister believe that the Windsor framework will undo the proportion of the damage that has been done to the Northern Irish economy?
The political turmoil has been unhelpful. The public voted for staying together and leaving the EU, and that is what we are delivering.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not address if the Windsor framework will mitigate economic damage caused by Brexit in Northern Ireland.
Response accuracy