Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
The Rt Hon Hilary Benn MP
Biography
Hilary Benn was appointed Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 5 July 2024. They were elected as the MP for Leeds South in 1999.
Secretary of State for Northern Ireland
The Secretary of State has overall responsibility for the Northern Ireland Office, advances UK government interests in Northern Ireland and represents Northern Ireland interests in the Cabinet.
The Secretary of State leads on:
-
Political stability and relations with the Northern Ireland Executive
-
National security and counter-terrorism
-
Implementation of the Stormont House and Fresh Start Agreements, including legacy of the past
-
Representing Northern Ireland in the Cabinet on EU exit, including new economic opportunities
-
International interest in Northern Ireland, including relations with the Irish government