HL Deb 12 February 2001 vol 622 cc5-6WA
Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission's statement in its strategic plan that it is "completely independent from any outside influence be it Government, a political party, a large company, a non-governmental human rights organisation or a group of activists", is compatible with a majority of its commissioners being members of the Committee for the Administration of Justice. [HL530]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

This is a matter for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. The Chief Commissioner has been asked to write to the noble Lord. A copy of his letter will be placed in the Library.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What equality criteria were used in the formation of committees by the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission to advise on a Bill of Rights; and whether the members of each committee were requested to declare their background and community involvement before their appointment. [HL549]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission is bound by the requirements of s.75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 to have due regard to the need to promote equality of opportunity and good community relations. The composition of any working group set up by the commission is a matter for the commission itself. The Chief Commissioner has been asked to write to the noble Lord. A copy of his letter will be placed in the Library.

Lord Laird

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Further to the Written Answer by Lord Falconer of Thoroton on 29 January (WA 30–31) referring to the letter from the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission of 19 January which indicated that the Ulster Scots Agency had been consulted about appointments to the Bill of Rights Language Committee, in what form was the consultation; when it took place; and what was the response, from whom and in what form. [HL550]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

This is a matter for the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission. The Chief Commissioner has been asked to write to the noble Lord. A copy of his letter will be placed in the Library.