HC Deb 10 December 1975 vol 902 c209W
Rev. Ian Paisley

asked the Attorney-General if he will prosecute IRA organisers for conspiracy.

The Attorney-General

Where there is evidence of the commission of any indictable offence it is in Northern Ireland the duty of the Chief Constable to furnish that evidence to the Director of Public Prosecutions for Northern Ireland for his consideration with a view to the initiation of criminal proceedings. It is for the Director to consider the evidence and to decide what if any charge is appropriate. This applies to all cases of conspiracy as to other indictable offences.

Rev. Ian Paisley

asked the Attorney-General how many persons have been prosecuted for membership of the IRA, including those who have claimed IRA membership when detained.

The Attorney-General

Between 8th August 1973 and 30th November 1975 directions were issued for the prosecution of 207 persons in respect of the offence of belonging, or professing to belong, to the Irish Republican Army. Following these directions prosecutions have been completed in respect of 187 persons.