Minister for intergovernmental relations promises to work with devolved nations

The newly appointed minister for intergovernmental relations, Pat McFadden has made his first official visit to Northern Ireland.

The trip comes after the government committed to resetting and strengthening the relationship between Westminster and the devolved governments of the UK.

McFadden, alongside Northern Ireland secretary Hilary Benn, met with resetting and strengthening the relationship between Westminster and the devolved governments of the UK.

Discussions covered the inaugural meeting of the Council of the Nations and Regions expected in the coming weeks, as well as the UK’s International Investment Summit.

McFadden also visited the Stormont Government Estate, the UK Government Hub at Erskine House in Belfast and toured Red Bay Boats’ manufacturing facility in Cushendall, County Antrim and met representatives from the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and Minister for Intergovernmental Relations, the Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP, said: "The Government takes seriously having a good working relationship with the Northern Ireland Executive. The Secretary of State and I had a constructive and valuable meeting today with the First Minister and deputy First Minister discussing the forthcoming Council of Nations and Regions and the UK’s International Investment Summit.  Everyone wants their citizens to have good jobs and rising living standards and we are all resolved on that point."