§ Mr. Stallardasked the Minister of State for Defence what complaints have been made to the Army concerning the arrest and interrogation of schoolboys aged 13 to 15 years at St. Thomas's Secondary School, Whiterock Road, Belfast, on Friday, 3rd December; and if he will hold an inquiry.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithA delegation of headmasters representing schools in the West Belfast area called to see the General Officer Commanding, Northern Ireland on 16th December to discuss a petition which had been sent to him on this subject. I understand a valuable discussion was held. No other complaints have been received by the Army. I do not intend to set up a public inquiry.
§ Mr. Ashtonasked the Minister of State for Defence whether he will inquire into the arrest by the Army of James Macwilliams, of St. James Crescent, Belfast, 258W earlier this week; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithMr. James Macwilliams was arrested by the Army at 1.15 a.m. on 11th December under Regulation 11 made under the Civil authorities (Special Powers) Act and was then handed over to the Royal Ulster Constabulary for questioning. His custody thereafter is a matter for the Northern Ireland Government.