HC Deb 14 November 1996 vol 285 c345W
23. Mr. Bill Walker

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the security situation in Northern Ireland. [2536]

Sir John Wheeler

As the new Chief Constable said recently, the Provisional IRA has shown that it is prepared to prolong the misery and suffering, but the security forces will do all in their power to deter terrorist attacks. Following the bomb in Thiepval barracks, the security forces immediately re-introduced such security measures as were considered appropriate. In particular, there has been an increase in Army patrolling and snap vehicle checkpoints are being set up in many areas around Northern Ireland. In addition, some town barriers are closed at night and vigilance has been heightened.