§ Mr. Stratton Millsasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Robert McKinnie and Robert Johnson in the Shankill area on 7th September, 1972.
§ Mr. WhitelawI understand that prior to the shooting incidents in question crowds had gathered on the Shankill Road near Wilton Street. Troops came under armed attack and gunfire was returned.
Shortly after this exchange of fire, Mr. McKinnie and Mr. Johnston were admitted to the Royal Victoria Hospital suffering from gunshot wounds. Mr. Johnston was dead on arrival and Mr. McKinnie died shortly afterwards.
At the coroner's inquests on 24th October, open verdicts were returned. Police investigations are continuing.