HC Deb 10 June 1981 vol 6 c152W
Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what criteria he employs in deciding whether an organisation or association should be proscribed.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

Section 21 (4) of the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1978 provides thatThe Secretary of State may by order —proscribe— any organisation that appears to him to be concerned in terrorism or in promoting or encouraging it. Decisions on the proscription of organisations in Northern Ireland are based on the criteria laid down in this provision.