§ Q.2. Mr. McNamaraasked the Prime Minister when he next hopes to pay an official visit to Northern Ireland.
§ The Prime MinisterI have no plans to do so at present, Sir.
§ Mr. McNamaraMight I encourage the Prime Minister, when he goes there or when his right hon. Friend discusses matters with the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, to give urgent consideration to the scheme now mooted for proportional representation and multiple constituencies in order to overcome extremism from both factions and get more stable government?
§ The Prime MinisterThe method of election is a matter for the Northern Ireland Government. I understand that no decision has been reached on the matter.
§ Mr. Stratton MillsIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is widespread sympathy for the troops who this weekend faced new weapons in the form of automatic weapons as well as gelignite bombs? Can we have any further details about what General Freeland referred to as the outside influences which were causing this trouble?
§ The Prime MinisterThe whole House condemns the use of these weapons. The weapons and those who use them have been condemned by people of all beliefs in all parts of Northern Ireland. I am sure that, like me, hon. Members warmly welcome that. As for the details for which he asks, perhaps my hon. Friend will address his Question to my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.
§ Mr. Harold WilsonMay I first associate this side of the House with what the Prime Minister has said about weapons? With regard to my hon. Friend's suggestion in relation to proportional representation, may I remind the Prime Minister that, in addition to this being a matter for the Government in Stormont, it is well within the terms of reference of the Constitutional Commission? To the right hon. Gentleman's knowledge, has the Constitutional Commission proposals of that kind before it?
§ The Prime MinisterI have no knowledge of the proposals which the Constitutional Commission is considering, and it has not reported to me in any way. As for its terms of reference, I also have no doubt that it would be open to the Commission to consider this point.
§ Mr. St. John-StevasWill my right hon. Friend confirm that it is the policy of the Government to continue to give backing and, where necessary, encouragement to the Stormont Government in their efforts to achieve social justice for everyone in Northern Ireland?
§ The Prime MinisterFrom the beginning of this Government we have given them our full backing. We will continue to do so.