Secretary of State to discuss Troubles legacy issues with Stormont party leaders

The Secretary of State is meeting with Stormont’s political leaders later to discuss how to deal with Troubles legacy issues.

It follows the Labour government's commitment to “repeal and replace” the controversial Legacy Act brought in by the Tories, which halted scores of cases going through the courts and inquests concerning the Troubles, and set up the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery (ICRIR).

The ICRIR is expected to be retained under Labour.

Speaking ahead of today’s meetings in Belfast Secretary of State Hilary Benn said," This UK Government is committed to repeal and replace the previous government's Legacy Act and to ensuring we have a system that is capable of delivering for all families who are seeking answers around the loss of their loved ones.”

"I am continuing to work with all of the Northern Ireland parties over what should be included in that legislation.”

“It is important that new legacy arrangements are capable of commanding the confidence of families and of all communities.”