§ 7. Mr. DykesTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what plans he has to hold discussions with editors and reporters concerning the Northern Ireland peace process.
§ Mr.AncramMy ministerial colleagues and I have frequent contact with representatives of the press and broadcasting organisations at all levels in Northern Ireland and Great Britain. Their questions are wide ranging and cover all aspects of Northern Ireland affairs, including the "peace process". There will be facilities for the media to study the joint framework document if and when it is published, along with our proposals for discussion on internal institutions in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. DykesI strongly welcome the Government's determination not to be thrown off course or scared by extreme views and mischief making. Does my hon. Friend have any more information on the recent mischievous press leaks, in The Times and other newspapers, about the draft proposal?
§ Mr. AncramAn official inquiry into the leak is under way, headed by a senior Northern Ireland Office official. It would be inappropriate for me to speculate, pending the outcome of that investigation. I think, however, that it is important, during the process of seeking a settlement to the problems of Northern Ireland, that the media play their part by keeping the public fully informed of what is happening.
§ Rev. Martin SmythIs it not passing strange that a Government who, allegedly, are defending the Union 1124 should, through a Government official, advise a journalist or an editor that their policy is to face down the Unionists? Will the same assiduousness be shown in tracing that official as, apparently, has been shown in tracing those who leaked to The Times?
§ Mr. AncramIf the hon. Gentleman has any specific information to give me or my right hon. and learned Friend about that matter, we should be pleased to hear it.