HC Deb 20 November 1981 vol 13 cc239-40W
Mr. Kilfedder

asked the Prime Minister whether, following the Anglo-Irish talks, she will consider introducing measures to enable her to hold a referendum in Northern Ireland early in 1982 on the question of restoring a Parliament and Government at Stormont.

The Prime Minister

No. I have no need of a referendum to inform me of the widespread wish of the people of Northern Ireland to play a fuller part in its administration. What is lacking is agreement on the way in which power should be exercised in that administration.

The Government are determined to continue to seek an acceptable basis for a transfer of power and look to the elected representatives of both parts of the community to work towards that end.

Mr. Marlow

asked the Prime Minister whether she will make it the policy of Her Majesty's Government actively to encourage the people of Northern Ireland to wish to remain part of the United Kingdom.

The Prime Minister

We shall maintain the union of Great Britain and Northern Ireland in accordance with the wish of the majority in the Province.