§ Mr. Michael Brownasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will introduce legislation to provide for a system of permits for foreign journalists working in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Humphrey AtkinsReports of recent events in Northern Ireland indicate that some, and I emphasise some, foreign journalists have acted in ways which fall far short of the standards which we are entitled to expect.
Nevertheless, the principle of the freedom of the press is not one which can be abandoned or indeed, infringed without the most serious and careful consideration. I cannot see a present need for the course suggested.