§ Mr. BeggsTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what mechanisms are in place to implement security assessments relating to marches and parades and their public order implications; and what advice he has received on this matter. [177190]
§ Mr. PearsonMy right hon. Friend, the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland is kept informed of the current situation with regard to the forthcoming marching season. There is no information which would suggest this marching season will be significantly different from 2003. The policing of parades is an operational issue which is entirely a matter for the Chief Constable.