§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what representations he has made to the states in the United States of America about legislation based on the MacBride principles; in how many of those states the legislation was subsequently enacted; in how many is such legislation pending or being passed between one or other of the two Houses; and if he will list the states in those categories.
§ Mrs. ChalkerOur representatives in the United States are in touch with state legislatures about possible legislation based on the MacBride principles. Since 1985, legislation has been passed in 10 states—Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, 729W Minnesota, New Jersey, New York and Rhode Island—and defeated in six. Of the five states which enacted MacBride Bills in 1988, four passed Bills which were significantly amended in their passage through state legislatures. In no state is legislation pending or between houses.
§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he will state in theOfficial Report the representations he has made to the United States of America concerning the investment of funds in companies which do not follow the MacBride principles in Northern Ireland; and in which cities.
§ Mrs. ChalkerWe have consistently opposed the campaign based on the MacBride principles because it could adversely affect investment and the creation of new jobs in Northern Ireland. Our representatives in the United States have been in touch with local legislators where MacBride legislation has been in prospect. The United States Government oppose the imposition of the MacBride principles on United States companies operating in Northern Ireland.