HC Deb 15 December 1987 vol 124 cc481-2W
Mr. Campbell-Savours

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland for what purposes over the past five years the Police Authority for Northern Ireland has ordered green, black, khaki and green marine berets, Parka jackets, Streamlight torches and camouflaged thermal clothing.

Mr. Tom King

[holding answer 8 December 1987]: A total of 24 assorted berets were acquired in 1983 to add realism to the training of officers who might have to deal with, for example, illegal vehicle check points carried out by paramilitaries in the guise of military patrols. The other items were obtained for RUC operational training purposes, and may be used in the field when circumstances and weather conditions require.

Mr. Campbell-Savours

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland why the Police Authority for Northern Ireland paid in cash for British-style military uniforms in 1983 and 1984.

Mr. Tom King

[holding answer 8 December 1987]: I have no evidence of any payment in cash.