§ 51. Sir John Biggs-Davisonasked the Attorney-General if he will seek to meet the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ireland to discuss extradition and other matters of common concern.
§ 52. Mr. Adleyasked the Attorney-General when he last met his counterpart in the Irish Government; and what subjects were discussed.
§ The Attorney-GeneralI have no immediate plans to meet the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ireland. I have met him on three occasions this year and last met him on 7 April. Work is proceeding between officials on problems arising in the area of extradition.
§ Sir John Biggs-DavisonDid the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ireland give my right hon. and learned Friend any idea when the Government of the Republic of Ireland are likely to start applying the European convention on the suppression of terrorism, which they have signed but which is not yet in operation?
§ The Attorney-GeneralAs I understand it, a final decision has not been taken. However, it is likely that that matter will require legislation in the Dail.
§ Mr. AdleyDoes my right hon. and learned Friend agree that patient co-operation with friendly Governments and the resistance of the temptation to meet terror with terror is the best way to tackle terrorism?
§ The Attorney-GeneralThe co-operation between my Department and the Department of the Attorney-General of the Republic of Ireland is first class. There are constant meetings between officials and we are making very good progress.
§ Mr. Campbell-SavoursWill the right hon. and learned Gentleman discuss with the Attorney-General of the Republic the kidnap insurance policies being sold in the City of London by Cassidy Davis, Sedgwicks, and Syndicate No. 702? Is he aware that they make payments to the IRA, and will he stop that? Why will he not accept that he has powers under section 10 of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act to bring a case in the courts and secure a prosecution? Will he now do that and stop equivocating?
§ The Attorney-GeneralI take note of what the hon. Gentleman has said.
§ Mr. WinnickWould it not be useful if the Attorney-General told critics of the Anglo-Irish agreement that the matters raised today are likely to make more progress if there are good relations between the Republic of Ireland and this country?
§ The Attorney-GeneralWith regard to my Department—the only one over which I can exercise any control—the relationship is first-class and extremely productive.