HL Deb 19 February 2001 vol 622 cc84-5WA
Lord Vivian

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What new factors have been taken into account in assessing the future of the South Armagh watch towers. [HL542]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

The Secretary of State receives regular briefings on security matters from the Chief Constable and his security advisors. We are committed to the normalisation of security arrangements in Northern Ireland as quickly as the threat allows.

It remains the position that the future of the South Armagh watch towers will depend on the ongoing assessment of the threat.

Lord Vivian

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the Royal Ulster Constabularly, Army and security organisations have agreed that the South Armagh watch towers may be dismantled; and what are their new reasons for dismantling them now when they were opposed to their removal a few months ago. [HL543]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

Historically, South Armagh has been a very dangerous area for the security forces. The towers helped to reduce that risk considerably and it is only when that danger disappears or is reduced to a minimal level that significant movement can be made in this area.

We do want to see the removal of all the special security measures in South Armagh in due course. This must however be assessed against the threat posed.

Any change to the current security force infrastructure in South Armagh will depend on the ongoing assessment of the threat. We will not take risks with the lives of the people of Northern Ireland and we will take further measures only when it is safe to do so.

Lord Vivian

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they intend to dismantle any of the South Armagh watch towers; and if so, how many. [HL544]

Lord Falconer of Thoroton

Security force commanders continually review the situation at these and other installations both to see where changes can be made and to ensure that continuing requirements are justified.

The Government's position remains consistent and clear. Any change to the current security force profile in South Armagh will depend on the ongoing assessment of the threat.

A specific level of security must be retained and at present this includes the towers in South Armagh.