Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

Levelling-up Agenda Opportunities for Northern Ireland 2022-03-07

2022-03-07

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TAGS
Response quality

Questions & Answers

Q1 Direct Answer
Ian Paisley Jnr
▸ Context
The MP is seeking details of recent discussions regarding the opportunities for Northern Ireland within the UK's levelling-up initiative.
What recent discussions have there been with the Northern Ireland Executive about the potential opportunities for Northern Ireland from the levelling-up agenda?
Neil O'Brien
The Secretary of State met the then First Minister to discuss opportunities, and I recently met Conor Murphy, the Minister of Finance, to discuss the delivery of the UK shared prosperity fund in Northern Ireland. We look forward to working closely with the Executive on this.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2 Partial Answer
Ian Paisley Jnr
▸ Context
The MP inquired about hydrogen buses as a key economic opportunity under the levelling-up White Paper and sought assurance on the prioritisation of this technology.
In light of the five strategic schemes for zero-emission buses, will the next set include hydrogen buses? Will there be joined-up thinking across departments to ensure this happens?
Neil O'Brien
The hon. Gentleman correctly identifies an opportunity for Northern Ireland through the hydrogen agenda, including increased research spending outside the south-east and strengthened places agenda, with many opportunities to advance his priorities.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific mention of hydrogen buses not addressed, no commitment to joined-up thinking across departments
Identified An Opportunity Increased Research Spending
Response accuracy
Q3 Partial Answer
Alun Cairns
▸ Context
The MP is interested in the opportunities presented by the levelling-up fund to regenerate communities that were not eligible for EU aid, particularly focusing on Barry.
With the end of European aid and new eligibility under the levelling-up fund, will the Minister ensure attention is given to previously ineligible areas like Barry when the next funding round opens?
Neil O'Brien
My right hon. Friend correctly notes that the next round of levelling-up funding will open soon, offering flexibility and opportunities for places that did not previously qualify for EU aid.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Specific commitment to Barry not given
Correctly Notes Offering Opportunities
Response accuracy