§ 51. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement about the military profile and operations in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. Robert C. BrownAs I advised the hon. Member for Newbury (Mr. McNair-Wilson) on 12th October—[Vol. 917, c.90–1]—operations by the Armed Services continue in support of the civil power in Northern Ireland at levels related to the particular security situation in each area of the Province. There has recently been an increase in attacks on the security forces, and tragically, over the past month, one Regular Army soldier, 144W three members of the UDR and two RUC constables have lost their lives as a result of terrorists' actions. These cowardly attacks will not, however, deflect the security forces from their firm resolve to protect the citizens of Northern Ireland from the men of violence and to maintain the rule of law.