Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Bill

The government maintains that the Bill is legally robust and compliant with international obligations, and sets out its reasons for retaining the delegated powers the Committee criticised.

• On opposition to the Bill, the government "recognises" that it will "remain difficult for many" but says it has "the potential to deliver better outcomes", and that it remains "committed to constructive engagement with all interested parties" as the Bill passes through Parliament.
• On ECHR compliance, it says it brought forward a Committee Stage amendment so the Commissioner for Investigations decides whether a criminal investigation forms part of a review, and that information release remains subject to protections on national security and risk to life.
• On the Lord Advocate, it says it "will continue to engage" and is "open to continuing discussions", believing issues at the interface with the Lord Advocate's duties can be resolved "satisfactorily".
• On the clause 19 power, it does not accept removal, stating that a "comprehensive list in Secondary Legislation is the most appropriate way forward" and that the negative procedure "will ensure sufficient scrutiny can occur".