§ Captain Orrasked the Secretary of State for Defence by what authority the military search of the Kilkeel fishing fleet was carried out on Friday, 13th February; what was the purpose and result of the search; why the captain of "The Jeanette" was ordered to leave his ship, contrary to maritime law, while the search was carried out; and whether, in view of the discourtesy by the troops involved, he will institute an inquiry into the circumstances.
§ Mr. HattersleyFollowing the recent discovery of a small amount of ammunition and explosive mechanisms in the Kilkeel area, a routine search of fishing vessels in that area was carried out on 13th February as a deterrent to the smuggling of arms. The search was carried out in accordance with Regulation 4 made under the Civil Authorities (Special Powers) Acts (Northern Ireland) 1922–43. No arms or ammunition were found. My inquiries into the other aspects of the case are not yet complete, and I will write to the hon. and gallant Member.