Public Services: Budgetary Constraints

Part of Northern Ireland – in the House of Commons at on 22 November 2023.

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Photo of Steven Baker Steven Baker The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office

My right hon. and learned Friend is right to highlight the issue. A number of things have been said about this matter that are not the case. The money will be made available in Northern Ireland, and it has been set aside. If memory serves, it is about £15 million, but I would need to double-check—if I am incorrect, I will write to him. The reality is that we need decisions to be taken by a restored Executive, and the Government are keen to work with Northern Ireland Ministers to that end. I am grateful to him for highlighting this point and giving me the opportunity to say that the money will be spent in Northern Ireland.[This section has been corrected on 29 November 2023, column 7MC — read correction]