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Northern Ireland Policing Board (Northern Ireland) Order 2007

I am most grateful. My experience is minimal, but what I do know is that English, Welsh and Scottish politicians have had a really cushy time compared with those who represent and have carried out the representative function in Northern Ireland over the past 30 years. There is no comparison between the sacrifices made and the courage shown by those representatives, elected or otherwise, in trying to maintain law and order and the semblance of a civic society. I want to make that absolutely clear. It would be wrong and improper for me to go down the road of discussing individuals, but the independent Member referred to earlier, who I believe has been elected, will not be eligible for appointment to the reconstituted board. I want also to repeat, for the avoidance of any doubt, that the chairman and vice-chairman are appointed by the board. I am sure that the noble Lord, Lord Trimble, does not expect me to respond to his remarks, but I will make sure that his precise and specific remarks are put before the Secretary of State at the earliest possible time. I understand where they are coming from and it is a very important issue. In my last few seconds I want to thank all noble Lords for their attendance at Grand Committee and for supporting these orders. I think we have one more session in Grand Committee on two orders next week. One of those is the modification order which I have already highlighted to noble Lords. It has to be brought before the House for carrying on direct rule. There are good reasons for that and the dates will be apparent. The other order will probably raise the hackles of more than one Peer, although I do not want to start another debate now, in discussing the renewal of recruitment to the policing arrangements. But those are matters for next Tuesday. Again, I am grateful for the support shown for these orders. On Question, Motion agreed to.