§ 12. Mr. Fatchettasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will consider establishing an inquiry into possible links between the security forces in Northern Ireland and Loyalist paramilitary groups.
§ Mr. ScottNo, Sir. The RUC already investigates any reports of illegal association with thoroughness and urgency, whomsoever they may involve.
§ Mr. FatchettDo recent alleged cases of links between the Ulster Defence Regiment and Loyalist paramilitary organisations not undermine people's faith and confidence in the security forces? Would not a public inquiry be the best way of resolving the fears, so that people can have faith in the security forces and know the extent of the links between the UDR and the paramilitary organisations?
§ Mr. ScottIt is certainly no part of my job to comment upon individual cases which are subject to the judicial process. I shall do nothing to undermine the confidence of the public of Northern Ireland in the UDR as a whole, which does a first-class job on behalf of the community there.