asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the progress in current discussions between political parties in Northern Ireland and the Department; and if he will indicate which political groupings are involved and which Ministers are taking part.

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on any discussions currently taking place or proposed between political groupings in Northern Ireland and the Department; and if he will indicate which political groupings are involved and which Ministers are taking part.

At my request, my hon. Friend the Member for Bath (Mr. Patten) has begun to talk to the main constitutional political parties to investigate and clarify their positions. In due course, he will help me assess the prospects for progress towards new devolved arrangements for Northern Ireland.