§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many of the deaths from plastic bullets in Northern Ireland during 1981 occurred while rioting was in progress in the immediate vicinity.
§ Mr. Prior[pursuant to his reply, 25 February 1982, c. 466.]: Inquests into the deaths allegedly caused by baton rounds last year are yet to be held and it would not therefore be appropriate to comment on the circumstances of the deaths.
§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if the Royal Ulster Constabulary used rubber baton rounds during disturbances in Northern Ireland in 1981; and, if so, for what reason.
§ Mr. Prior[pursuant to his reply, 25 February 1982, c. 466.]: Some rubber baton rounds were used by the Royal Ulster Constabulary during disturbances in 1981 owing to a shortage of plastic baton rounds. Their use was discontinued as soon as plastic baton rounds were available.
§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many of the the people (a) killed and (b) injured by plastic bullets in Northern Ireland since their introduction were struck at ranges of (i) less than five metres, (ii) five to 20 metres and (iii) over 20 metres.
§ Mr. Prior[pursuant to his reply, 25 February 1982, c. 466.]: The circumstances of the deaths allegedly caused by baton rounds will be considered at the coroners' inquests which are yet to be held and it would not be appropriate to comment. Information about those injured by baton rounds could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.
§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will list the different versions of plastic bullet currently in service with the Royal Ulster Constabulary in Northern Ireland; and what are their weights and muzzle velocities.
§ Mr. Prior[pursuant to his reply, 25 February 1982, c. 466.]: The Royal Ulster Constabulary currently use only one type of plastic baton rounds, with a 25 grains charge. Its muzzle velocity is 60 metres per second with one launcher and 70 with another. Its weight is approximately 135 grams.
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§ Mr. Freesonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland which tests of plastic bullets have been carried out by his Department to determine the risk of fatality or serious injury.
§ Mr. Prior[pursuant to his reply, 25 February 1982, c. 467.]: Advice on the assessment of risks associated with the baton rounds used by the Royal Ulster Constabulary has been made available to me by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Defence.