§ 18. Mr. David Priceasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what discussions he has had with the Government of the Republic of Ireland for the improvement of co-operation between the police and security forces north and south of the border; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Humphrey AtkinsOn 5 October I met the Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Irish Republic and the Minister for Justice to review progress on the proposals for improving co-operation in counter-terrorist operations made by our two Governments at the meeting between my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister and the Taoiseach on 5 September. I294W am pleased to say that we were able to agree on a series of measures which both Governments are satisfied will considerably improve the effectiveness of our common campaign against terrorist violence, particularly in the border areas. We have agreed on measures in relation to more intensive patrolling on both sides of the border and improved co-ordination and communications between the respective security forces. In the interests of operational effectiveness we have agreed not to disclose any details.