Patrick Cormack

Conservative Party | South Staffordshire

Question on Terrorist Groups

Sir Patrick Cormack (South Staffordshire) (Con): I acknowledge the transformation in Northern Ireland, and thank the right hon. Gentleman for the significant part that he has played in that. As what might be his last service as Secretary of State, will he hold a meeting with Sinn Fein members to persuade them that they can now make no greater contribution than to disband the IRA?

Mr. Hain: I saw the president of Sinn Fein on Monday and discussed the future situation with him. He is well aware of where republicanism has gone under his leadership. Republicanism is now committed overwhelmingly to a democratic and peaceful future.