HC Deb 13 June 1996 vol 279 c270W
22. Mr. Riddick

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the outcome of the elections in Northern Ireland. [30946]

Mr. Ancram

As intended, the 30 May election opened the way to substantive all-party negotiations which began on 10 June and allowed the various parties to come fortified by an electoral mandate. The high turnout demonstrated the wish of the people of Northern Ireland for political dialogue.