Kemi Badenoch suggested Sir Keir’s Government would ‘write a cheque’ to Gerry Adams (Liam McBurney/PA)
By Helen Corbett and Richard Wheeler, PA
Today at 13:45
Sir Keir Starmer has said he is looking at “every conceivable way” to stop former Troubles internees such as Gerry Adams from seeking compensation.
The Prime Minister was responding to criticism of the Government’s proposed repeal of legislation that had put a stop to such civil claims.
He criticised the Northern Ireland Troubles (Legacy and Reconciliation) Act 2023 and said he will continue with efforts to replace the existing legislation, which stopped such payouts to Mr Adams and other former internees.
Kemi Badenoch said at Prime Minister’s Questions that Sir Keir’s Government “may write a cheque to compensate Gerry Adams”.
“This is shameful,” the Conservative Party leader said.
Sir Keir replied: “That Act was unfit not least because it gave immunity to hundreds of terrorists and wasn’t supported by victims in Northern Ireland, nor I believe by any of the political parties in Northern Ireland.
“The court found it unlawful. We will put in place a better framework, we’re working on a draft remedial order and replacement legislation, and we will look at every conceivable way to prevent these types of cases claiming damages.
“It’s important I say that on the record.”