Overriding local decision-making undermines devolution

Carla Lockhart MP • November 2, 2022

Upper Bann DUP MP Carla Lockhart and Paul Givan MLA have met with Secretary of State Chris Heaton-Harris today in Belfast, to express their opposition to the decision by the Northern Ireland Office to commission abortion services in Northern Ireland.

Speaking after the meeting, the DUP representatives said:

“It is deeply regrettable that the Secretary of State has continued down the pathway of Brandon Lewis by commissioning abortion services here in Northern Ireland.

This is a devolved matter. It is for those elected to the Northern Ireland Assembly, and those appointed to serve in any future Executive, to decide on the law regarding abortion in this part of the United Kingdom.

In a society where there are such deeply held views, on both sides of the argument, it is not surprising that reaching consensus on this issue at Stormont has been elusive. However, the answer to that is not to impose the pro-abortion minority viewpoint, when the clear majority in Northern Ireland are against the liberal abortion regime being pursued by the Secretary of State.

We made this point forcibly to the Secretary of State and that his actions undermine both the devolution settlement in Northern Ireland and how devolution might be viewed by many people. The Secretary of State should be working to see the return of devolution and local decision making in Northern Ireland, not stripping away key decisions."

< Older Post

Newer Post >

DAERA Farm Investment Scheme a missed opportunity to combat rural crime

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 28, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has urged farmers and rural communities to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity following a recent spate of thefts targeting farms across Northern Ireland.

Lockhart criticises DAERA plans for £2m on-farm TB biosecurity advice service

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has criticised DAERA's plans to press ahead with a multi-million pound tender for the provision of an on-farm bovine TB biosecurity advice service.

MP invites DEFRA Secretary to Upper Bann and sets out priorities for UK agri-food sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

DUP Agriculture spokesperson Carla Lockhart MP has written to newly appointed DEFRA Secretary Dame Angela Eagle, requesting a meeting and inviting her to visit Northern Ireland to hear directly from farmers, businesses and industry leaders in Upper Bann.

MP urging Prime Minister to restore confidence across UK farming sector

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 22, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has written to new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, urging him to place agriculture and national food security at the centre of his Westminster Government's agenda.

Lockhart commends community spirit at Killicomaine Fun Day and bonfire celebrations

By Carla Lockhart MP • July 15, 2026

Upper Bann MP Carla Lockhart has praised the outstanding community spirit on display during a visit to the Killicomaine Fun Day, commending local volunteers and bonfire builders for their dedication in bringing the community together ahead of the Twelfth celebrations.