Northern Ireland (Temporary Provisions) Act 1972 facts for kids
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| Long title | An Act to make temporary provision for the government of Northern Ireland, and for purposes connected therewith. |
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| Citation | 1972 c. 22 |
| Territorial extent | Northern Ireland |
| Dates | |
| Royal assent | 30 March 1972 |
| Other legislation | |
| Repealed by | Northern Ireland Act 1998 |
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Status: Repealed
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| Text of statute as originally enacted | |
The Northern Ireland (Temporary Provisions) Act 1972 was an important law passed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom. This Act introduced what is known as "direct rule" in Northern Ireland. This meant that the British government in London would directly govern Northern Ireland. This change started on March 30, 1972.
This law became active right away after it received royal assent. Royal assent is when the King or Queen officially agrees to a new law. The Act made several big changes to how Northern Ireland was run.
Contents
What the Act Did
The 1972 Act changed who was in charge of Northern Ireland.
New Government Roles
- A new person, called the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, was put in place. This person took over the jobs of Northern Ireland's ceremonial Governor. They also took over from the government ministers and department heads in Northern Ireland.
- The main legal advisor for England and Wales, the Attorney General for England and Wales, took over the duties of Northern Ireland's Attorney General.
Parliamentary Changes
- The Parliament of Northern Ireland was effectively put on hold for an unknown time. This meant it could not make new laws.
- The power to make laws for Northern Ireland was given to the British Government. They could make new laws using something called an Order in Council. This is a special type of law made by the King or Queen and their advisors.
Later Changes
The political groups and systems that were paused by this Act were officially ended the next year. This happened with another law called the Northern Ireland Constitution Act 1973.
Reactions to the Act
Many people in Northern Ireland had strong feelings about this new law.
Political Response
A well-known politician from Northern Ireland, William Craig, spoke about the Act. He said it was a very difficult and challenging time for Ulster, which is another name for Northern Ireland. His words showed how serious and impactful this new law was seen to be.
