Overview

This bill temporarily transfers the powers of Northern Ireland's Department of Health to the UK Secretary of State. This transfer happens only when the Northern Ireland Executive is not functioning, ensuring continued health service provision during periods of political instability.

Description

This bill addresses the situation where the Northern Ireland Executive, the devolved government responsible for health services, is not functioning. It specifically outlines:

• Transfer of Power: The bill mandates that the Secretary of State for Health (UK Government) assumes the powers to make regulations and orders currently held by the Northern Ireland Department of Health. This includes powers granted under the Northern Ireland Act 1998 and the Departments (Northern Ireland) Order 1999.
• Broader Powers: The Secretary of State may also exercise other statutory functions related to primary healthcare in Northern Ireland, in addition to the Northern Ireland Department.
• Temporary Nature: The transfer of power is temporary, lasting only until the Northern Ireland Executive is re-established. Specific exceptions are made for short periods related to elections or the appointment of executive members. The bill automatically expires once the Executive is restored.
• Geographic Scope: The Act applies to the whole of the UK (England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland).

Government Spending

The bill itself doesn't directly allocate or change government spending. The cost implications would depend on the length of time the Secretary of State is responsible for Northern Ireland's health functions and any additional administrative requirements this might entail. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• People in Northern Ireland: They will experience the most direct impact, as the governance of their healthcare system will temporarily shift to the UK government.
• Northern Ireland Department of Health Staff: Their roles and responsibilities may be temporarily altered.
• UK Secretary of State for Health: This individual will assume significant additional responsibility for healthcare in Northern Ireland.
• Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly Members: Their ability to govern health matters will be suspended.

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