§ 18. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Defence where the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Rangers has served since 1969.
§ Mr. William RodgersSince 1969, the 1st Battalion Royal Irish Rangers has been stationed at Catterick and in BAOR. During this period it has spent six months on an unaccompanied tour in Cyprus as part of the United Nations forces.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonIs it not a little exceptional that this regiment has never been allowed to return to its home base in Northern Ireland or to fulfil duties in Northern Ireland? May I suggest to the hon. Gentleman that its composition rather mirrors the community in Northern Ireland and that it might be of extremely effective assistant to the British Army out there?
§ Mr. RodgersThe hon. Gentleman's point, though certainly worth serious consideration, raises difficult issues. As he will know, not since 1933 have any Irish regiments been stationed in Northern Ireland, except for training or ceremonial duties.