§ Mr. DonaldsonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he will publish regulations for the flying of the union flag on Government buildings in Northern Ireland. [132149]
§ Mr. MandelsonThe flying of flags on Government buildings is in the first instance a matter for the devolved administration in Northern Ireland. I would much prefer the Executive to reach a consensus view on this issue but am ready to use my powers under the Flags (Northern Ireland) Order 2000 if necessary. I have sought the views of the Executive Committee of the Northern Ireland Assembly and of the political parties in Northern Ireland about the coverage and content of any regulations. When I have received and considered the responses, I will make my own view known.