Oral answer to question provided on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 in the House of Commons, by Nick Clegg (Liberal Democrat), Deputy Prime Minister.

Topical Questions

Answer: I certainly agree that there is no straitjacket solution to devolution across the United Kingdom or even in areas in England. One thing we must avoid is the trap of excessive neatness. Each part of our diverse nation is different. I share the hon. Gentleman’s disappointment that there is this stand-off, which, in the long run, will mean that if budgetary gridlock ensues it will be the poorest and most vulnerable in Northern Ireland who will suffer most.

This is an answer to the Topical question asked on Tuesday, 14 October 2014 by Lord McCrea of Magherafelt and Cookstown (Democratic Unionist Party).

Question: Will the Deputy Prime Minister confirm that any devolution package for the devolved Administrations will not be uniform but will recognise the wishes and the capacities of each Administration? Given Sinn Fein’s fiscal irresponsibility in Northern Ireland, does he agree that the devolution of additional fiscal powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly needs to be considered carefully?

Secondary information