HC Deb 31 October 1984 vol 65 cc1068-9W
Rev. William McCrea

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) as a result of the Community Relations Act 1973, what directives and instructions have been issued to public bodies in Omagh district area; if he will make available copies of all directives; and what resources were placed at the disposal of these bodies;

(2) what research or evaluation has been carried out since the passing of the Community Relations Act 1973 by the two respective Ministers to address the working of the Act in Northern Ireland; what research has been commissioned by universities or other research agencies; and if such research is now available;

(3) what is the expenditure in Omagh district council area year by year since the passing of the Community Relations Act 1973 by the various public agencies deemed to have a necessary role; and what submissions were made by any agency or persons about community relations and the development of the same in Northern Ireland and in Omagh district council area;

(4) if he is considering proposing any amendments to the Community Relations Act 1973.

Mr. Scott

I assume that the questions are intended to refer to the Community Relations (Amendment) (Northern Ireland) Order 1975. This order provides no power to issue directives or instructions. The working of the order is under constant review, but no research into it has been commissioned. The information requested on expenditure by relevant agencies and on submissions made is not readily available and could be obtained only at disproportionate cost. I am not considering proposing amendments to the order.