§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Lord Privy Seal if he will set out the reasons that have been given to the Government both by the new Administration in the United States of America and their predecessors for refusing to supply materials to the Royal Ulster Constabulary.
§ Sir Ian GilmourAs my hon. Friend may know, the first order of 3,000 Ruger revolvers was delivered from the United States for the Royal Ulster Constabulary in 1979. The United States authorities have told us that they are at present taking no action on export licence applications, but continue to hold the matter under review. This position is that taken by both the present Administration and their predecessor.
However, as my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister said on 3 March, in reply to the hon. Member for Down, North (Mr. Kilfedder), the Chief Constable of the Royal Ulster Constabulary has advised that the force has sufficient weapons for its present requirements.—[Vol. 1000, c. 130.]