HC Deb 21 October 1971 vol 823 cc158-60W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Minister of State for Defence what instructions troops now have when fired on from terrorists operating from the Republic of Ireland side of the border; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. G. Johnson Smith

In accordance with international law, soldiers may return fire when this is essential for self defence, as it has been on occasions in recent weeks.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the Minister of State for Defence what arrangements he is making to tighten security on the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lambton

During recent weeks the Army has provided additional patrols and has cratered or spiked a number of unapproved crossings. The programme of blocking such crossings will continue, and measures to tighten the control of traffic on approved crossings are being considered. The three additional major units that have recently arrived in Northern Ireland will enable the General Officer Commanding, among other things, to strengthen control of the border.

Mr. Cronin

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the operations of British troops in Ulster.

Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Minister of State for Defence whether he will make a further statement about operations in Northern Ireland.

Lord Balniel

Terrorist outrages continue but the security forces are being steadily successful in their operations to combat the terrorist activities. Control of the Border has been tightened with the recent increase in force level and the cratering of a number of unapproved crossings.

Mr. McManus

asked the Minister of State for Defence whether a compound was erected and finished by 23rd August, 1971 in Palace Military Barracks, Holy-wood, for the use of the Special Branch of the Royal Ulster Constabulary in conducting interrogations.

Mr. G. Johnson Smith

Yes.

Mr. McManus

asked the Minister of State for Defence, in view of the concern among the Catholic community in Northern Ireland about interrogations going on daily in Palace Military Barracks, if he will take steps to stop such treatment taking place in these barracks.

Mr. G. Johnson Smith

The questioning of arrested men by the police at Palace Barracks will continue.

Mr. McNamara

asked the Minister of State for Defence if he is satisfied with the conditions and treatment of detainees arrested by the Army and held without charge or trial in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Maudling

I have been asked to reply.

I would refer the hon. Member to what I said in answer to Questions on 19th October.—[Vol. 823, c. 546–550.]