§ Mr. Hooleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further steps he intends to take to reduce lawlessness in Northern Ireland, particularly that involving the use of motor vehicles.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesFurther to my statement to the House on 4th November, I intend to introduce regulations to curb the theft of motor vehicles, bearing in mind particularly their use by terrorists. In the year ending 30th October 1975 no fewer than 6,674 vehicles were stolen in Northern Ireland, and many of them were used in the commission of terrorist crimes, including some of the worst shooting and bombing attacks. I believe that the motor car has become as important to the terrorist as the gun.
These regulations will require motorists in Northern Ireland to lock and immobilise their vehicles when unattended. A reasonable period of time will be allowed for immobilisation devices to be fitted but the requirement to lock unattended vehicles will come into effect shortly after the regulations are made.