HC Deb 25 October 1972 vol 843 cc324-5W
Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland who authorised the secret discussions which recently took place between the Ulster Defence Association and senior Army officers in Belfast; and if he will make a statement about the outcome of those talks.

Mr. David Howell

On 17th October Mr. Roy Bradford, MP for Victoria, accompanied by representatives of the Ulster Defence Association from his constituency, at his request met myself, the General Officer Commanding and senior officials. On the following day there was a meeting between representatives of the UDA and a senior Army officer. The object of both meetings was to discuss generally the current situation and possible ways of reducing tension. Brief Press statements were issued at the conclusion of the meetings.