HC Deb 29 March 1990 vol 170 cc307-8W
41. Mr. Gill

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what practical alternatives to devolution have emerged from his exploratory meetings with the main constitutional political parties.

Mr. Brooke

All the main constitutional political parties in Northern Ireland have expressed a willingness to work towards the devolution of powers to local elected representatives. The Government support this aim, because it seems the approach most likely to command widespread acceptance and serve the interests of all. My discussions with the leaders of the parties have concentrated on this approach.