§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when the Northern Ireland Office purchased the green van registration number DLX 554 J; for what purpose this van is operated; and what orders the RUC has received in granting it unrestricted passage.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesI understand that the hon. Member accosted the driver outside the offices of the Northern Ireland Office and asked if it was for sale. The vehicle is the property of Her Majesty's Government and was carrying equipment for Northern Ireland Office purposes. In these circumstances the cooperation of the RUC for its admittance was naturally obtained. I can only regret that the hon. Member did not obtain this information before making a misleading statement in Northern Ireland.