§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence what correspondence he has received in the past two years concerning paramilitary infiltration of the Royal Irish Regiment(a) at Alma barracks, Catterick and (b) elsewhere; and what standing orders have been 31W issued concerning (i) display of paramilitary insignia and emblems and (ii) possession or distribution of documents and other materials. [102031]
§ Mr. SpellarI will write to my hon. Friend and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House.
§ Mr. McNamaraTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence on what date rules governing the security of classified documents and sensitive personal information were changed to restrict access by units of the Royal Irish Regiment; and if he will make a statement. [102032]
§ Mr. SpellarMembers of the Royal Irish Regiment are afforded the same access to classified information as any member of the British Army holding similar rank, position and responsibility. That access is strictly limited on a 'need to know' basis.