I thank the hon. Gentleman for his question. There have been a number of quite forthright conversations between the Taoiseach, the Tanaiste and myself on this matter. Obviously anything could be tested in legal action as we move forward, but I believe that the Bill is article 2-compliant. I do not see that as negative, because there are five elements to article 2 compliance—independence, capability of leading to the identification and punishment of perpetrators, prompt and reasonably expeditious, involvement of next of kin, and a degree of public scrutiny, which I think are all included in this. So I think we are in a strong place to resist any such potential charges, and I would like to think that means that we can happily move on together.
Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill
Proceeding contribution from
Chris Heaton-Harris
(Conservative)
in the House of Commons on Tuesday, 18 July 2023.
It occurred during Debate on bills on Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill.
About this proceeding contribution
Reference
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2022-23Chamber / Committee
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2023-07-19 17:16:47 +0100
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