§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Minister of State for Defence under what circumstances a 15-year-old Protestant youth, 419W Harold Morris, was shot dead by Irish Republican Army terrorists at Boundary Street/Corgill Street, Belfast, on Thursday, 18th May; why the Army did not return the fire, although the sniper was plainly seen by those present at the shooting; and if he will call for a report of the incident which will include the evidence of the civilian eye witnesses.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithAt about 4.15 p.m. Harold Morris was killed when a burst of automatic fire was directed at Boundary Street from the direction of Divis Towers. Troops were quickly on the scene, but the gunman could not be positively identified and therefore fire was not returned.
I understand that the civil authorities are investigating the shooting and that they are taking evidence from all persons who can assist them in their inquiries.
§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Minister of State for Defence how many shots have been fired at the Army by Irish Republican Army terrorists since 1st April, 1972, to the latest convenient date in Londonderry City; how many of these shots came from the direction of the Bog-side or Creggan; what injuries they inflicted; what return fire the Army engaged in; and what injuries the Army inflicted.
§ Mr. G. Johnson SmithI regret that it is not possible without disproportionate effort to provide this information in the detail requested.
Between 1st April and 22nd May the Army brigade covering County Londonderry, part of County Antrim and part of County Tyrone reported that there had been 421 incidents of shots being fired at security forces and 323 incidents when troops fired.
During the period, three soldiers were killed and 20 wounded by terrorist gunfire. Six people suspected of being terrorists are known to have been killed and 53 others are believed to have been hit.