§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement about the harmonisation of police divisions with Army brigade areas; and what other measures have been, and are to be, taken to co-ordinate the intelligence gathering operations and administration of the Royal Ulster Constabulary with the Ulster Defence Regiment and the Regular Armed Forces.
§ Mr. MasonThe boundaries of Army brigades and the regional Assistant Chief Constables' areas correspond exactly, with only a few minor exceptions. So far as the boundaries between police divisional areas and Army and UDR battalion areas are concerned, studies are currently being undertaken to see whether there is scope for further rationalisation. The aim will be to ensure that there is maximum co-ordination of all the activities of the police and Army without sacrificing the flexibility of deployment currently enjoyed by the Chief Constable and the GOC.