Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill 2022-12-14
2022-12-14
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Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner inquires about recent discussions with victims of Troubles-related offences and community leaders regarding the Bill.
What recent discussions have you had with victims of Troubles-related offences and community leaders concerning the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill?
On the Bill's Second Reading in the other place, the Government announced their intention to introduce amendments in a number of key areas. These proposed changes reflect what we have heard from significant engagement with victims and survivors and their representatives, as well as community leaders and other stakeholders.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not specify exact details or dates of recent discussions with victims and community leaders
Reflected What We Have Heard
Engagement
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Q2
Direct Answer
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Context
The questioner seeks assurance that amendments to the Bill will tighten it up, ensuring full engagement with truth and reconciliation processes.
Can you confirm that the legacy Bill will be tightened before returning to this place, specifically in regard to protagonist engagement, moral equivalence avoidance, and language of glorification?
I can give my hon. Friend assurances of that type. That is why we proposed changes set out by my ministerial colleague on Second Reading in the other place, which include sanctions for those who refuse to co-operate or wilfully mislead.
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Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The questioner seeks a conclusive report timeline for the family of Robert Vaughan-Jones who died in Warrenpoint during the Troubles.
Will Mr Vaughan-Jones receive a conclusive report about his brother's death so that he can finally have closure?
The Bill's information recovery process will be supported by comprehensive investigative powers and full state disclosure, providing families with a fast route to as full an account as possible about what happened to their loved ones and closure, where that is possible.
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Assessment & feedback
Did not provide a specific timeframe or assurance on conclusive report delivery for the family
Fast Route To As Full An Account
Response accuracy
Q4
Direct Answer
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Context
The questioner acknowledges the Secretary of State's visit to Omagh bombing memorial garden and seeks further engagement strategies with victims.
Despite intentions to work closely with victims, there are still concerns from various victim groups. Can you outline what will be done now to ensure involvement of victims in this Bill?
Government amendments will be tabled that confirm the independent commission's establishment by legislation, ensuring criminal investigations can proceed where appropriate and individuals providing false information may face prosecution. We are continuing talks with groups and individuals regarding these areas of improvement for the Bill.
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Response accuracy