§ Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the escape from the Maze Prison; whether it has been discovered how wire cutters were smuggled into the prison; whether he will take steps to intensify searching of visitors and parcels; and whether he will make a statement on the protection available for the local community living in the vicinity of the prison.
§ Mr. Peter MillsAbout 9 p.m. on Sunday 11th March 1973 two detainees were apprehended by Army patrols in the military area outside the perimeter of Maze Prison. Wire cutters were found beside them. A roll check in the compound from which the men had come established that a third detainee, William James Kelly, was missing. An intensive operation was mounted by the security forces, but this was hampered by the very heavy fog which had helped the escapers to avoid detection by the patrols and sentries within the prison and which persisted throughout the night.
The escape, including the origin of the wire cutters, is at present being investigated by the police, Procedures for searching visitors and parcels are kept under review; it would not be in the public interest to reveal what action is contemplated at this stage.
The security forces provide protection for the local community.