§ Mr. Ron BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent representations he has received from the Association of Local Authorities in Northern Ireland about the state of local government under its control; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. NeedhamIn common, I understand, with other Members of Parliament, I received a letter dated 30
240WOctober from the president of the Association of Local Authorities of Northern Ireland, expressing concern about the position of local government in Northern Ireland. The Government have told the association that we agree entirely that the presence in district council chambers in Northern Ireland of those who support terrorist violence while exploiting the democratic process poses serious problems. We recently published a discussion paper, "Elected Representatives and the Democratic Process in Northern Ireland", as a basis for comment by interested parties. In the light of responses, the Government will decide what action to take.