HC Deb 10 March 1977 vol 927 cc1615-6
7. Mr. Farr

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is his policy towards the representation of Northern Ireland in the Council of Europe and in the institutions of the European Economic Community.

Mr. Concannon

The United Kingdom's representation in the European Assembly of the EEC and in the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe is organised on a parliamentary basis.

There are well-established ministerial and official links which ensure that the United Kingdom's representation in the other institutions of the Community takes full account of Northern Ireland's interests.

Mr. Farr

Is it not completely wrong that Northern Ireland is not represented on either of these bodies when, for instance, Luxembourg, with only one quarter of the population of Northern Ireland, has six Members of Parliament on each of these international bodies? Is the Minister satisfied that the Northern Ireland case is not going by default in international circles?

Mr. Concannon

I am happy at the results that we have been obtaining, in Northern Ireland terms. I am fully involved, as are Ministers in other Departments and our officials, at a high level. I am satisfied that Northern Ireland interests are not going by default.

Mr. McNamara

The House will be pleased that the whole ministerial team is present in the Chamber and in the other place today. That must be unique, and it suggests that the Northern Ireland situation is improving. Is my hon. Friend aware of the dangers inherent in the question by the hon. Member for Harborough (Mr. Farr)? It tends to suggest that Ulster should have independent and separate representation. Is he aware that there are some people who would go along with that idea and perhaps would like to see the Province in the Republic? If we are one Parliament and one people, should we not be satisfied with the situation?

Mr. Concannon

I accept my hon. Friend's analysis. The first part of my hon. Friend's question was observant, as usual. Even Northern Ireland Ministers cannot be in two places at once.