§ 25. Mr. RathboneTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what assessment he has made of the influence of drug dealing on violence in the Province; and if he will make a statement. [20434]
§ Sir John WheelerAn accurate assessment of the influence of drug dealing on the extent of violent crime is not available. Because of the influence of terrorist groups, victims and witnesses may sometimes be unwilling to make complaints or otherwise assist any form of police investigation. Between April 1995 and January 1996, seven alleged drug dealers were murdered by a group calling itself "Direct Action Against Drugs", a covername for the Provisional IRA. The RUC continues to pursue those responsible and in this it has the full support of the Government.