§ 16. Mr. Stuart Bellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the security situation in Northern Ireland.
§ Mr. ScottSince 27 November, three civilians and one policeman have died as a result of the security situation in the province. Sixy one people died in Northern Ireland last year as a result of the security situation and one person has already died this year.
The security threat remains high and there are no grounds for complacency, but the courageous and determined efforts of the security forces are continuing to yield results. During 1986 a total of 655 people were charged with serious offences, including 12 with murder and 215 weapons, 29,000 rounds of ammunition and almost 5,400 lb of explosives have been recovered. Over 531 people were convicted during 1986 of offences related to terrorism.