T4. Mr Beattie asked the First Minister and deputy First Minister when we will see a new or amended ministerial code, given that amendments to the ministerial code to incorporate changes made by the Executive Committee (Functions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2020 were agreed in February 2022, notwithstanding this place being down for two years. (AQT 324/22-27)

That is a matter that the Member has raised before. I do not have the time frame, but I will come back to the Member as it is an area that he is particularly keen to see advanced. With no institutions in place, the amendments were not put in place, but they need to be. I am happy to respond in writing.

Thanks, First Minister. The point that I am getting at is that the ministerial code no longer reflects legislation. Has the Attorney General given a view on the validity of the present ministerial code?

Again, as part of the written response, I will confirm whether the AG has expressed a view. Nothing has been brought to my attention on that, but I am very happy to look into it.