§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Defence what evidence he has about the possession of a paramilitary organisation in Northern Ireland of Army files relating to members of the Provisional IRA; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. JohnI am aware of recent Press reports alleging that Army documents have been in the possession of such organisations in Northern Ireland. Inquiries have shown that some of the documents mentioned in these reports appear to be of Army origin dating from the period 1972–73 or earlier. Most of the documents are unclassified and the524W remainder are classified "Restricted". Inquiries are still continuing and I am not in a position to comment on the circumstances surrounding their loss. However, I can say that the instructions have been issued to remind soldiers of current security regulations.