§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, in the light of complaints from judges that the maximum sentences for certain serious cases connected with terrorism are inadequate, what proposals he has to remedy this.
§ Mr. MasonWe are continuing to study ways of strengthening our legal armoury against terrorism. We have already declared our intention to increase the maximum penalty for membership of a proscribed organisation when a suitable legislative opportunity occurs. An examination of penalties in the explosives field is under way, following the increases in those relating to firearms offences.