HC Deb 05 February 2004 vol 417 cc1053-4W
Mr. Peter Robinson

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether solicitors have been retained to draft legislation in respect of the Single Equality Bill. [152215]

Mr. Spellar

No. Assembly Bills introduced by the Northern Ireland Executive during devolution and Orders in Council made under the Northern Ireland Act 2000 while the Assembly is suspended are drafted by the Office of the Legislative Counsel of the Office of the First Minister and Deputy First Minister. A panel of experts, who are legal and academic specialists, was set up in February 2003 to provide advice to assist in the policy development process.