§ 18. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Minister of State for Defence whether he is satisfied that adequate measures are taken to prevent the reinforcement and re-equipment of the Irish Republican Army during the truce; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Lord BalnielIn the circumstances of the ceasefire the Army took all practicable measures to prevent the reinforcement and re-equipment of the IRA.
§ 34. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Minister of State for Defence what instructions are given to local commanders regarding their dealings with Irish Republican Army and Ulster Defence Association leaders in de facto control of areas in Northern Ireland.
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§ Lord BalnielIt is not the practice to disclose the instructions which are issued to Army commanders: but where Army commanders have had discussions with persons from the local community their object has been to promote reconciliation and to avert further violence from whatever quarter.
§ 35. Mr. Wilkinsonasked the Minister of State for Defence what is his estimate of the cost to the Defence Vote (Air) of transporting representatives of the Irish Republican Army from Ireland to London and back on Friday, 7th July for discussions with members of Her Majesty's Government; and by whose authority these members of an illegal organisation were authorised to fly in an aeroplane of the Royal Air Force.
§ Lord LambtonThe cost of about £435 is being borne by the Northern Ireland Office, at whose request these flights were undertaken.