§ Mr. Pounderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what study was made of pedestrian through traffic in Church Lane, Belfast, before the High Street junction was sealed off by the security forces as a security measure;
(2) what communication was made with retailers in Church Lane, Belfast, before the High Street entrance was fenced-off.
§ Mr. David HowellAccount was taken of pedestrian movements when the barriers were erected, though it is not the practice for detailed security measures to be discussed in advance with members of the public. There have been subsequent discussions between local traders and the security forces, and the junction between Church Lane and High Street has been re-opened to pedestrians.
§ Mr. Pounderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what study has been made by his Department of the commercial consequences of the new 60W security measures for the retailers in Church Lane, Belfast.
§ Mr. David HowellThe new security measures are the result of a careful balancing of commercial and security interests. The recent bombs in the city centre show the need for stringent security arrangements. Several adjustments have now been made to the original scheme following discussions with interested parties.