HC Deb 13 May 1998 vol 312 cc140-1W
9. Mr. Reed

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what consultation she has had with business about the prospects for the economy following the Belfast agreement. [40688]

Mr. Ingram

I have had discussions with many business people in Northern Ireland since 10 April. Prospects for the local economy will be enhanced enormously if we can now secure a lasting political settlement. My right hon. Friend the Chancellor's initiative, announced by my hon. Friend yesterday, will further help in a major way to realise these prospects.

15. Mr. Fitzpatrick

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment she has made of the scope for increased cross-border co-operation on economic development. [40695]

Mr. Ingram

Significant cross-border co-operation already exists in the areas of rail and road developments, tourism, trade and energy. It offers mutual advantage and real economic benefits to both Northern Ireland and the Republic. Cross-border trade in particular has grown substantially in recent years generating greater wealth and employment in both parts of Ireland. In 1997 it was worth over £1.6 billion and has the potential for further growth.

19. Charlotte Atkins

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she will make a statement on the future prospects for economic development in Northern Ireland. [40699]

Mr. Ingram

Prospects for economic development in Northern Ireland are very encouraging. The number of people in employment is the highest on record. Unemployment has fallen to well below the EU average. Manufacturing output is outpacing the UK average. These prospects would be enormously enhanced with lasting peace and an agreed political settlement.

26. Dr. George Turner

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment she has made of the benefits for economic development from cross-border co-operation. [40707]

Mr. Ingram

Government agencies and the private sector have been co-operating with their counterparts for a number of years on a wide range of economic activities including infrastructure, tourism, trade and energy issues. Such mutually beneficial co-operation can contribute significantly to the generation of employment and greater prosperity in both parts of Ireland.