Commons Sense

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Restoration of Assembly Powers 2020-06-24

2020-06-24

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Q1 Direct Answer
Bob Blackman Con
Hammersmith
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Following the restoration of full powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly on January 9, there are concerns about laws passed by this House affecting Northern Ireland.
What steps has the government taken regarding the restoration of full powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly? My hon. Friend will know that this House has passed laws concerning abortion in Northern Ireland. Can he confirm it is now up to the Northern Ireland Assembly and Executive to decide whether to keep, reform or revoke these laws?
Robin Walker (Minister of State for Northern Ireland Office)
Following successful talks earlier this year, full powers were restored to the Executive and Assembly. The regulations concerning abortion do not replace or remove powers from the Executive; they were introduced after a three-year absence of devolution and approved by Parliament via an amendment to the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2019. These regulations came into force on March 31, remain the law, and allow the Assembly to legislate or amend them as long as compliance with CEDAW recommendations and convention rights is maintained.
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