§ Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) whether he will make a statement about security measures arising from the Official IRA's plan to hold an "International Guerrilla Festival" in Belfast;
(2) if he is satisfied with the adequacy of his powers under the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1973 or other legislation to prevent events such as the holding of an International Guerilla Festival planned by the official IRA.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the anti-imperialist conference, organised by the Official Sinn Fein, which is planned to open in Dublin on 22nd July and to continue in Belfast from 29th July to 3rd August. I gather that the organisers have invited representatives from a number of political groups in other countries to take part in a programme of lectures, discussions and films.
The security aspects of the conference are being kept closely under review, and I must make it clear at this stage that British tolerance of political views does not extend to criminal terrorists. Her Majesty's Government will continue to take all steps in their power to ensure that people who have committed terrorist crimes do not enter the United Kingdom for any purpose, and to prevent public disorder arising from meetings, marches or demonstrations,
The Official Sinn Fein is a legal organisation in Northern Ireland and Her Majesty's Government do not propose to alter the law to prevent the expression of views with which they may not agree, provided that there is no breach of the existing law.