Sir Robert Buckland has been appointed as Chair of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee. With immediate effect, Sir Robert steps into the role, and is set to serve until the end of the current Parliament.
He replaces Simon Hoare, who was appointed as a local government minister at the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities as part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s recent reshuffle.
The Committee examines the expenditure, administration and policy of the Northern Ireland Office and its associated public bodies.
Following his election he said, “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to chair the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee. With thanks to my colleagues who nominated me and supported my appointment. I am honoured to take on this privilege and at such a critical time for Northern Ireland politically.”
“I will bring to the role experience and knowledge of Northern Ireland’s political landscape gained throughout my career. First as UK Government Law Officer, where I handled issues related to devolution and oversaw the passage of legislation through the Assembly, then latterly as Lord Chancellor, where I worked closely with senior judges in Northern Ireland to overcome judicial issues.”
“As Chair, I will not shy away from the necessary scrutiny required of the Northern Ireland Office, particularly as we see events unfold without a functioning Executive in Stormont.”
“Northern Ireland is a valued and vital part of our United Kingdom, with communities and a history for which I have deep respect. I will work tirelessly, together with my fellow Committee Members to provide effective scrutiny and, ultimately, improve the policies affecting the lives of people in Northern Ireland.”
