HC Deb 02 May 1991 vol 190 cc416-7
2. Mr. Arbuthnot

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he is taking to encourage business in Northern Ireland to promote community relations; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office (Dr. Brian Mawhinney)

The Government believe that it is vital for all sections of the Northern Ireland community to become involved in promoting community relations. I shall be meeting groups of business men and women over the coming weeks to explore what further steps can be taken by the business community to help to encourage greater cross-community contact, mutual understanding and respect and appreciation for cultural diversity.

Mr. Arbuthnot

Is my hon. Friend aware that in the careful progress that is being made towards talks between the parties in Northern Ireland, he carries with him the best wishes not only of the House, but of all those who would like to see an end to violence and division in Northern Ireland?

Dr. Mawhinney

I know that I speak for my right hon. Friend when I thank my hon. Friend for his kind words. As he will be aware, the talks to which he referred started on Tuesday. I believe that they carry a large measure of goodwill both within Northern Ireland and beyond.

Mr. Trimble

Is not one of the best ways to promote good relations in business to ensure that the true facts about the religious balance in employment are fully known? Does the Minister agree that the recent survey by the Fair Employment Commission showed that the global position within Northern Ireland is that there is no significant imbalance in employment? Inevitable rationalisation will follow the merger of the Trustee Savings Bank and Allied Irish Banks. Will the Minister ensure that it is done in such a way that a fair balance of employment is produced in the new firm?

Dr. Mawhinney

As the hon. Gentleman probably knows, he is asking questions which are important but which stray way beyond my responsibility and into that of my hon. Friend the Member for Wiltshire, North (Mr. Needham), the Under-Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, who will have heard the hon. Gentleman's question.