HC Deb 05 July 1971 vol 820 c291W
Mr. Maginnis

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he will issue instructions to ban all Press reports of troop movements and methods of dealing with subversive elements in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Lambton

Great care is taken to ensure that no publicity is given from official sources to any measures of which prior knowledge would assist those who present a threat to peace and order.

Major-General Jack d'Avigdor-Gold-smid

asked the Minister of State for Defence how many members of Her Majesty's forces took part in the raid on a bomb factory in Devonshire Street, Belfast, on 28th June; how long the operation took; and if he will make a further statement about it.

Mr. Lambton

The search and the operation associated with it involved just under 100 men. The main operation extended over some 10 hours. Since criminal proceedings are in train it would be inappropriate to make a statement further to that provided in my hon. Friend's reply to the hon. Member for Belfast, North (Mr. Stratton Mills) on 30th June, but the operation generally reflects great credit on those units concerned in it.—[Vol. 820, c.144.]