§ Rev. Ian Paisleyasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland why the Irish tricolour was allowed to fly at a Republican meeting in the Diamond, Londonderry, on Saturday 17th June 1978; and whether the statutory notice was given to the police about this parade.
§ Mr. MasonThe Royal Ulster Constabulary has power to remove a flag or emblem if its display is likely to cause a breach of the peace. I understand from the Chief Constable that on this occasion the police took the view that no such breach was likely. The subsequent march was in contravention of the Public Order (Northern Ireland) Act 1971 and police inquiries into this are continuing.