Written question asked by Lord Laird (Non-affiliated) on Monday, 27 March 2017, in the House of Lords. It was due for an answer on Monday, 10 April 2017. It was answered by Lord Dunlop (Conservative) on Monday, 10 April 2017 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Government

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Dunlop on 24 March (HL6168) concerning undertakings given to the government of the Republic of Ireland that direct-rule would not be imposed as part of the current discussions, whether they can confirm that no agreement on the imposition of direct rule was made.

Answer: The UK Government is focused on securing the resumption of devolved government in Northern Ireland. We do not want to see a return to direct rule. If talks between the parties fail in their objectives, however, we will have to consider all options, as it is the UK Government which is ultimately responsible for political stability and good governance in Northern Ireland. We have made no agreements about the imposition of direct rule with the Irish Government.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: HL6356
Session: 2016-17
Related items: Northern Ireland Government
Friday, 24 March 2017
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Northern Ireland government Republic of Ireland
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk