Northern Ireland Bill — 8 Feb 2000

Clauses 2 to 9 ordered to stand part of the Bill.

Schedule agreed to.

Bill reported, without amendment.

Order for Third Reading read.

I beg to move, That the Bill be now read the Third time.

Having listened to the debate, I have no doubt how most hon. Members would sum up the views of the House. There are those in the House who reject the entire notion of inclusive government. They would rather not have self-government than share it with those whom they consider beneath contempt.

Those who reject self-government because they cannot bear the idea of sharing it with others do not speak for the majority of people in Northern Ireland, who have

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demonstrated beyond doubt that they like devolution, they like having their own Executive, and they like having locally elected people who are democratically accountable--local voices taking decisions on local issues, and people with local accents in charge of local affairs.

Question put, That the Bill be now read the Third time:--

The House divided: Ayes 326, Noes 7.

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