Member

We should not have to debate matters of detail on these kinds of issues on the Floor of this House, but I am afraid it is necessary because the way in which Northern Ireland is now governed in 300 areas covering vast swathes of our economy means there is no input for any politician or representative from Northern Ireland into the formulation of legislation any more. Indeed, when it is published, I would recommend that noble Lords look at the evidence given today to your Lordships’ Northern Ireland Scrutiny Committee, chaired by the noble Lord, Lord Carlile, and on which I have the privilege to serve, about the frustration felt by businesses, consumers and trade organisations at the lack of input at an early stage into legislation, at legislation being imposed at very short notice, at the lack of ability even to consult their own members about the details of legislation and at the fact that there is so much confusion out there.