§ 19. Mr. Abseasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will call for reports from the chief constables concerned regarding the action they have taken to inquire into the threats to sabotage the construction of the Severn Bridge; whether he is satisfied with the security arrangements being made on the opening of the bridge by Her Majesty the Queen; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. TaverneMy right hon. Friend has received reports from the Chief Constables of Gloucestershire and Monmouthshire, and is satisfied that appropriate arrangements have been made.
§ Mr. AbseIn view of the fact that today we have learnt of a most unfortunate threat to the life of the Secretary of State for Wales, and in view of the past incidents by self-styled Welsh Nationalists and the tardy repudiation by their leaders of this type of conduct, may I ask my hon. Friend to take particular care, in view of the concern in Monmouth, that special security arrangements are made?
§ Mr. TaverneI think that we should, in all fairness, distinguish between Welsh Nationalists and those who have been making threats against a certain bridge and other properties. I assure my hon. Friend that the necessary measures have been taken and that we will guard the Severn Bridge and the Secretary of State for Wales, and other valuable property, with the greatest care.