HC Deb 11 June 1979 vol 968 c47W
Mr. Alton

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will prepare long-term plans for the withdrawal of troops from Northern Ireland.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

The Army provides, for the time being, a necessary support for the Royal Ulster Constabulary in the task of enforcing law and order in Northern Ireland, and it will continue to do so at the appropriate level for as long as necessary.