To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what consideration is being given to the introduction of a Bill of Rights for Northern Ireland.

Human rights and civil liberties are already well protected by existing legislation in Northern Ireland. I am always willing to consider proposals for strengthening the existing safeguards and I am examining carefully the recommendations in the Standing Advisory Commission on Human Right's second report on religious and political discrimination and equality of opportunity (Cm. 1107). I am not, however, convinced that a Bill of Rights is required.