HC Deb 13 February 2002 vol 380 c355W
16. Dr. Palmer

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the economic and social impacts of the Good Friday agreement on Northern Ireland. [33148]

Dr. John Reid

The Belfast agreement has had a positive impact on many aspects of life in Northern Ireland. The economic and social benefits are perhaps some of the most noticeable to arise from the agreement. Increased investor confidence has led to growth in the retail, construction and manufacturing sectors, helping to keep the economy buoyant and unemployment at a low level. While at the same time, more young people are staying to make their way in Northern Ireland society, now rooted firmly in the principles of individual rights and equality of opportunity for all.

24. Mr. Savidge

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what aspects of the Good Friday agreement remain to be implemented. [33156]

Dr. John Reid

I refer the hon. Gentleman to the answer I gave earlier to my hon. Friend the Member for Wimbledon (Mr. Casale),Official Report, columns 191–92.

21. Andy King

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in implementing the Belfast agreement in the last six months. [33153]

Dr. John Reid

Significant progress has been made. The devolved institutions are stabilising following the election of a new First and Deputy First Minster. The SDLP have signalled their support of the new policing arrangements, leading to the establishment of the Police Board and subsequent unanimous agreement by that board on a new badge for the Police Service of Northern Ireland. The IRA have carried out a significant act of decommissioning involving ammunition, arms and explosives. We must now build on these developments to ensure that the implementation of the agreement continues on all fronts.