HC Deb 15 May 1987 vol 116 c450W
Sir John Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the latest measures to improve security.

Mr. Tom King

My hon. Friend will know that I mentioned several important developments during the debate on security in Northern Ireland on 6 May These included approval for an immediate increase in the number of full-time members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary Reserve, the voluntary call-out of part-time members of the Ulster Defence Regiment for full-time duty, the provision of additional helicopter resources, and the creation of a vehicle control zone on the main Belfast to Dublin Road at Killeen. I also made it clear that the present level of army support will remain for as long as it is needed, and that, where appropriate, certain additional support will be provided to help to counteract more directly the present terrorist campaign.