Cost of Living 2022-06-22
2022-06-22
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The cost of living is a significant issue across the UK, with concerns about how to support vulnerable households.
What steps are being taken by the Government to help reduce the cost of living in Northern Ireland?
The Government are acting decisively to ensure support for vulnerable households, and restoration of devolved government would be crucial for addressing issues locally.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific measures or initiatives not detailed beyond the need for restored devolution
Restoration Of Devolved Government
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Northern Irish households are vulnerable to energy price hikes due to the lack of an Executive and the absence of a local energy price cap.
How will the £400 energy discount be delivered in Northern Ireland, given that there is no local energy price cap?
The Government suggest that restoration of devolved government in Northern Ireland would facilitate delivery of the support, but this hinges on resolving issues with the Northern Ireland protocol.
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Assessment & feedback
Details on implementation not provided beyond reliance on restored devolution
Restoration Of Devolved Government
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
A recent Ulster Bank report indicates low business optimism in Northern Ireland due to the cost of living crisis.
What additional support can be provided to businesses struggling with high costs and uncertainty?
The Government are making a range of interventions including New Decade, New Approach funding, city and growth deals, the levelling-up agenda, and community shared ownership funding to support businesses and improve conditions in Northern Ireland.
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Assessment & feedback
Specific forms of assistance not detailed beyond mentioning existing initiatives
Existing Interventions
Response accuracy
Q4
Partial Answer
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Context
The Northern Ireland protocol is seen as a barrier to resolving issues affecting Northern Ireland.
How will the Government approach getting the EU to reconsider and resolve the Northern Ireland protocol?
The Government are straightforward in their stance that goods moving within the UK internal market pose no risk to the EU single market and they continue to negotiate, with Vice-President Šefčovič needing a broader mandate to reach an agreement.
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Assessment & feedback
Concrete steps not detailed beyond negotiation approach
Negotiation With Eu
Response accuracy
Q5
Direct Answer
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Context
The Barnett formula ensures that the household support fund benefits all UK regions, including £14 million for Northern Ireland.
Does the Government agree that the household support fund will help vulnerable households in Northern Ireland?
The Government agrees with the view that the household support fund, including its £14 million allocation to Northern Ireland, will help vulnerable households.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q6
Direct Answer
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Context
Ulster Rugby has plans to apply for levelling-up funding to enhance sporting facilities, which could attract major events and boost the local economy.
Will the Government commit to considering funding applications that would improve sports facilities in Northern Ireland?
The Government are committed to levelling up and will absolutely consider funding applications aimed at improving sporting and cultural infrastructure, thereby enhancing tourism and economic benefits.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy