HC Deb 30 April 1973 vol 855 cc250-1W
Mr. Maginnis

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many women have applied for enrolment into the women's section of the RUC Reserve; how many have been enrolled; and what their duties will be.

Mr. Peter Mills

Since recruiting opened in October 1972, 790 women have applied and 138 have been enrolled. They will assist the regular women police in the discharge of their duties.

Mr. Maginnis

asked the Secretary of Stale for Northern Ireland what is the present strength of the RUC; and in what areas it operates without military assistance.

Mr. Peter Mills

The strength of the RUC at 27th April 1973 was 4,277.

The RUC operates without military assistance in most areas of Northern Ireland. In certain limited areas of Belfast and Londonderry and in certain border areas military support is necessary because of the threat of armed attack.