HC Deb 12 June 1972 vol 838 cc220-1W
Rev. Ian Paisley

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what were the total number of shots fired at the security forces in Northern Ireland from Friday, 26th May, to Sunday, 4th June; and what deaths and injuries they caused.

Mr. David Howell

It is not possible to say how many shots were fired at the security forces during the period; but from 7.0 a.m. on 26th May until 7.0 a.m. on 5th June there were 131 shooting incidents involving the security forces. One soldier was killed. Six soldiers and two members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary were wounded.

Rev. Ian Paisley

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what were the total number of shots fired by the security forces in Northern Ireland at the Irish Republican Army terrorists from Friday, 26th May, to Sunday, 4th June; and with what results.

Mr. David Howell

In the period from 7.0 a.m. on 26th May until 7.0 a.m. on 5th June the security forces fired 265 rounds at terrorists. Twelve persons are thought to have been killed or wounded.

Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will publish the number of shooting and bombing incidents in Northern Ireland during May, 1972.

Mr. David Howell

The security forces were shot at 671 times, including 48 incidents in which automatic gunfire was directed at them. They returned fire on 217 occasions and initiated fire on 157 occasions. There were 395 reported incidents of gunfire in which the security forces were not involved. Ninety-four explosions occurred and 34 explosive devices were rendered harmless.