HC Deb 10 July 1980 vol 988 cc735-6
4. Mr. Stanbrook

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what discussions he has had recently with hon. Members representing constituencies in Northern Ireland relating to the constitutional future of the Province.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

In recent weeks I have had discussions with the leaders of both the main Northern Ireland parties represented in the House. We also had a discussion lasting over eight hours in the House yesterday.

Mr. Stanbrook

Has my right hon. Friend explained to the hon. Members concerned the Government's apparent unwillingness to implement their manifesto commitment to Northern Ireland?

Mr. Atkins

The Government have sought to return to the people of Northern Ireland, and are still seeking to do so, more control over their own affairs. In this context the important thing is to find what it is that the people of Northern Ireland want and to see whether that matches the wishes of the House. The discussions we have had have shown that there is a clear wish among the majority in Northern Ireland for a return to devolved government.

Mr. John

Will the Secretary of State accept, arising out of yesterday's debate, that it is quite clear that the Opposition will not accept a role for the advisory council in security matters? Even less will we accept a return of security matters to a devolved Assembly in Northern Ireland?

Mr. Atkins

I took particular note of what the hon. Gentleman said and, indeed, have taken note of what everyone said in the debate. It was most valuable.

Mr. Kilfedder

Will the right hon. Gentleman now give an answer to the request I have made on a number of occasions that the Northern Ireland Committee should meet at Stormont to discuss the possible devolution of government to the Province so that the people of Ulster can sit in and listen to what is being said and discussed in their name?

Mr. Atkins

I do not know how much support there is for that suggestion though, of course, I shall listen to it. I can tell the hon. Gentleman that it would mean a change in the Standing Orders of the House to enable that to happen.