HC Deb 03 April 1980 vol 982 cc635-6
6. Mr. Marlow

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the progress towards giving effect to the Government's policy to set up one or more elected local authorities similar to county councils.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

It is important to recognise that the Government's policy is to seek an acceptable way of transferring powers to elected representatives in Northern Ireland. The conference working paper contained six illustrative models of government, one of which described how executive powers might be exercised by one or more local authorities. Having heard the views of the parties represented at the conference and of others, I am clear that such a solution would fall short of commanding wide acceptance.

Mr. Marlow

Does my right hon. Friend agree that, whatever the discussions and proposals at the constitutional conference, it is the responsibility of this House, and this House alone, to introduce whatever measures are right and proper, and that the main concern of the House will be that there should on no account be introduced measures that would in any way damage the present or future integrity of the United Kingdom?

Mr. Atkins

I agree, and I would add that the measures that the House introduces must command acceptance among the people to whom they will apply.

Mr. Freeson

Does the Secretary of State accept that, whatever may be the future internal government arrangements on an elective basis, and whatever may be the links between Northern Ireland and the rest of the United Kingdom constitutionally, it will be fundamentally wrong and will result in continued troubles throughout the genera- tions if we do not introduce an all-Ireland dimension into the future political development of the Province?

Mr. Atkins

What the Government wish to do is to return to people elected in the Province powers over their own affairs. It will be for that body to decide what relations it wishes to have with authorities in the South.

Dr. Mawhinney

Will my right hon. Friend confirm that all the official submissions received by the conference were in favour of a devolved Government rather than a local council set-up, and that the question, which says that it is present. Government policy to set up quasi local councils, is incorrect?

Mr. Atkins

Yes, Sir. I can give the same answer to both parts of my hon. Friend's question.