§ Mr. RedmondTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will establish an inquiry into the case for a Northern Ireland assembly elected by proportional representation, with a high degree of autonomy within the United Kingdom, with the ability to represent Northern Ireland directly to the institutions of the European Community; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir Patrick MayhewI continue to urge the need for further political dialogue on such issues. The talks which took place last year identified common themes and principles which should underlie any new political institutions in Northern Ireland and examined possible structures which might reflect these. Preliminary consideration was also given to the possible future relationship between any new political institutions in Northern Ireland and the institutions of the European Community. I hope it will be possible to agree a basis for fresh talks which could make further progress towards agreement on these and other relevant issues.