§ 17. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the activities of the Army and the UDR in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownArmy operations continue throughout Northern Ireland in support of the civil power.
During my visit to the Province last week, when I visited units operating in Belfast and in the rural areas to the south, I was most impressed by the high morale of the troops. Their determination is clearly as strong as ever, and I cannot praise them too highly for the splendid way in which they are carrying out their difficult task. As we all know, it is also a dangerous task, and it is a matter of deep regret that three Regular Army soldiers have died in the past three weeks as a result of terrorists' actions. The House will wish to join me in expressing sympathy for their families.
The UDR is, of course, a regiment of the British Army, and is playing an important part in the Army's operations in Northern Ireland. Recent sad losses suffered by the UDR have served as a poignant reminder, as if one were necessary, of the particular risks and intimidation which its members courageously face daily.
§ 24. Mr. Flanneryasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the cost of the total Armed Forces in Northern Ireland this year as compared with last year.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownThe estimated extra costs of military operations in Northern Ireland for the two years in question are as follows:
1975–76 £60 million 1976–77 £63 million