Chris Heaton-Harris to Reveal Election Plans Next Week
No Northern Ireland Vote Before Christmas
Chris Heaton-Harris confirmed today there will be no Assembly election in Northern Ireland this December. Despite legal rules requiring a poll within 12 weeks of the October 28 deadline for parties to form a new executive, he has pushed back the vote to avoid clashing with the festive season.
Poll Deadline Looms After October 28
By law, Heaton-Harris must call an election after Northern Ireland’s political parties failed to forge a fresh government by October 28. But the Secretary of State is heeding public concerns about the cost and timing of an election during tough economic times.
Next Steps To Be Unveiled In Parliament
Heaton-Harris said: “I will make a statement in Parliament next week to lay out my next steps.”
He stressed his priority is restoring a strong, devolved government for Northern Ireland. “My duty,” he said, “is to create the right environment for parties in Northern Ireland to come together and deliver on crucial issues affecting people.”
He added he does not take this responsibility lightly and recognises the public’s concerns about the rising cost of living.
