§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Minister of State for Defence what further steps he proposes to take for the safety of Her Majesty's forces in Northern Ireland during off-duty hours, following the circulation to them by the Irish Republican Army of a letter threatening their lives.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithI would refer the hon. Member to the answer given to the hon. Member for Derby, South (Mr. Walter Johnson) on 17th March.
The matter will continue to be kept under review in the light of changes in the security situation.—[Vol. 813, c. 358–9.]
§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Minister of State for Defence how many Servicemen were arrested on civil charges in Northern Ireland during 1970; how many were brought to trial; how many were sentenced to terms of imprisonment; and how many are presently held on civil charges.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithDuring 1970, 202 members of the Regular Armed Forces were tried before the civil courts in Northern Ireland, the great majority for traffic offences. Full details of sentences imposed, and the number of arrests, as opposed to prosecutions, are not available. One Serviceman is being held on a civil charge at present, and five others have received summonses on which civil proceedings are pending.