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Written question asked by Jim Allister (Traditional Unionist Voice) on Friday, 31 October 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 12 November 2025 (named day). It was answered by Stephen Doughty (Labour) on Wednesday, 12 November 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.


Republic of Ireland: Official Visits

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, what protocols govern the President of the Republic of Ireland carrying out engagements in Northern Ireland; and whether the UK Government is (a) notified and (b) required to consent in advance of such visits.

Answer

There is no formal requirement for a Head of State to notify the UK Government ahead of a visit to the UK. In practice, most foreign governments do notify the UK government ahead of visits, particularly to discuss security arrangements.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
87201
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Northern Ireland Republic of Ireland Official visits
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk