Justice and Security (Northern Ireland) Bill

I am grateful for the increasing echo of support and consensus for the amendments. I am pleased that, at long last, I have been able to do something that has pleased my hon. Friend the Member for Foyle (Mark Durkan), which has not happened too often during the course of the Bill. I should also place on record that at this moment, as at others, we would have benefited from the advice of the hon. Member for North Down (Lady Hermon), who is assiduous in such matters. She is unable to be here with us this afternoon, but her contribution to debates on such issues is important. I have been asked further questions about two substantive issues. On the issue raised by the hon. Member for Worthing, West (Peter Bottomley), there are separate provisions for non-jury trial in England and Wales and Northern Ireland, and those are contained in the Criminal Justice Act 2003. That legislation contains references to the special provisions for non-jury trials in Northern Ireland. As we are changing those special provisions, we must also change the references in that other legislation. I am happy to confirm that in further detail in writing. A number of Members requested further information on the second issue, which was whether the decision on renewal will remain with Westminster or be devolved. The renewal decision will remain with Westminster. Clearly, three of the four conditions in the first limb of the statutory test relate to proscribed organisations, and the system of non-jury trial falls within that part of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 dealing with national security matters. It is therefore clear that the matter should remain one for Westminster, and that renewal should be considered by the House. That does not mean that we cannot discuss such matters with a future Justice Minister, First Minister or Deputy First Minister, as we reach a conclusion about whether to bring forward further affirmative resolutions. The decision, however, will be one for the House. Lords amendment agreed to.