§ 11. Mr. Dubsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps he has taken to explain the Anglo-Irish agreement to the people of Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. ScottThe Government have taken and will continue to take every appropriate opportunity, in the House, in the media and elsewhere, to correct misunderstandings about the Anglo-Irish agreement and to explain the advantages that it offers to all sections of the community in the Province.
§ Mr. DubsDoes the Minister agree that one of the tragedies of Northern Ireland is that the unionist leadership has opposed every constitutional proposal since 1972? Does he also agree that it is deeply disturbing that so-called constitutional unionist politicians should parade on the streets of Northern Ireland in the company of masked paramilitaries, and that the real challenge is to say to moderate unionist opinion, "Do not follow your leaders because they are misleading you and acting against your interests"?
§ Mr. ScottThere are substantial misunderstandings about the Anglo-Irish agreement. The statement issued by the unionist parties, which described the agreement as a joint authority, is manifestly wide of the mark. The arrangements to enshrine the principle of consent, to provide tighter security and cross-border co-operation, and to respect the rights of both traditions in Northern Ireland are all positive points for the future of the Province.