Northern Ireland (Executive Formation and Exercise of Functions) Act 2018

Originating House

House of Commons

Last Updated

2 November 2018

In Plain English

AI-generated

This Act creates a framework for forming the Northern Ireland Executive and for certain government powers to be exercised when there is no functioning Executive, to keep essential public services running. It ensures decisions can still be made during a period of political stalemate. It has now become law after receiving Royal Assent.

Key Points

Sets out how the Northern Ireland Executive should be formed and how functions can be exercised if the Executive is not yet formed
Provides a mechanism to keep essential public services running by allowing certain officials to take decisions
Includes safeguards and oversight on when and how these powers can be used
Was enacted with broad cross-party support in Parliament, though some Opposition MPs and the DUP opposed certain measures

Progress

The bill completed its passage through Parliament and received Royal Assent, and is now law.

Voting

Across divisions, Labour, Liberal Democrats, SNP, Plaid Cymru and many Independents backed the bill; Conservative MPs largely opposed or split, with notable opposition from the DUP. Sinn Féin and the Speaker did not vote on the divisions.

Who is affected?

People living in Northern IrelandNorthern Ireland civil servantsNorthern Ireland government departments and public bodiesPublic sector organisations and service usersBusinesses and organisations affected by government decisions in Northern Ireland

Generated 21 February 2026

How Parties Are Voting

Based on 8 recorded votes • Sorted by % Aye

Scottish National PartyGenerally For

20 / 0

Liberal DemocratGenerally For

38 / 6

IndependentGenerally For

18 / 3

Plaid CymruGenerally For

12 / 2

Labour (Co-op)Generally For

696 / 121

ConservativeMixed

137 / 221

Reform UKGenerally Against

4 / 14

Democratic Unionist PartyGenerally Against

4 / 22

Sinn FéinMixed

0 / 0

SpeakerMixed