Security, Law and Order

HC Deb 23 November 1978 vol 958 c744W

45. Mr. Goodlad

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will make a statement on security and law and order.

Mr. Mason

Since my right hon. Friend the Minister of State addressed the House on 15th November, a number of incendiary devices, approximately half of which were defused by the security forces, were planted in business premises in Northern Ireland, and some traffic disruption was caused by hoax devices. A fire in Belfast on 16th November believed to have been caused by an explosive device led to the death of a member of the fire service.

The recent attacks follow a period in which violence in the Province had remained at a low level. The security forces have reacted to the attacks with speed and efficiency, and, with the assistance and vigilance of the community, will continue to counter the threat.