§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Minister of State for Defence under what circumstances Irish Ranger William Best, while on leave from Germany at his home in the Creggan, Londonderry, was kidnapped, tried by an Irish Republican Army court, and murdered; what wounds and marks were found on his body; and how it is proposed that his murder be investigated when neither Army nor police can enter the Creggan area.
§ Mr. David HowellI have been asked to reply.
At 6.55 a.m. on Sunday, 21st May, 1972, the body of William James Best was found on waste ground in William Street, Londonderry. The circumstances in which he met his death and the nature of his injuries are matters which the coroner will wish to investigate. Police inquiries are proceeding notwithstanding the existence of the no-go areas.