The Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office (Mr Hugo Swire): An order to extend the current confidentiality arrangements for political donations in Northern Ireland was debated and approved by both Houses last month. [Interruption.] This order came into effect only from 1 March, so I have not had discussions on this issue with ministerial colleagues since then. [Interruption.]
Mr Speaker: Order. I understand that the House is eagerly awaiting subsequent business, but there are far too many noisy private conversations taking place, which is very discourteous to the people of Northern Ireland.
Glyn Davies (Montgomeryshire) (Con): While discussing donations to political parties in Northern Ireland in the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee, the Minister made reference to 'details of the recipient', 'the amount received' and when donations were made. Those were the reference points, so can the Minister tell us what progress has been made?
Mr Swire: Indeed, I can. I remain firmly of that view. We are not in the position that we would like, but I am advised that there are serious doubts about whether the issues that I mentioned can be addressed under existing legislation, which is very tightly drafted. I hope to make provision to bring more transparency to existing arrangements when a suitable legislative vehicle can be found.
Graham Evans: Will my hon. Friend let us know when legislation will be brought forward to make sure that donations and loans made to political parties in Northern Ireland during the prescribed period are not disclosed when the prescribed period expires?
Mr Swire: My hon. Friend makes an important point, which was behind the introduction of the statutory instrument. I hope that this will happen at the earliest opportunity.
Primary legislation will be required: we have extended the order for a further two years, so it allows us time to find a suitable legislative vehicle.