HC Deb 03 November 1998 vol 318 cc489-90W
Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations she has received concerning the re-opening of border crossing points BCP 92 and BCP 93; and what further plans she has for these roads. [56383]

Mr. Ingram

While I am not aware of any representations received concerning the re-opening of border crossing points BCP 92 and BCP 93, consideration is being given to their future.

Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if she will report progress on making good(a) Border Crossing Point 171 at Aghalane Bridge, County Fermanagh and (b) other border crossing points not yet restored to full usage after the lifting of closure orders. [56382]

Mr. Ingram

Work is progressing satisfactorily at Border Crossing point 171, and the bridge should be ready for use by Spring 1999.

There are only two other Border Crossing points which remain unopened since the revocation of closure orders: Border Crossing Points 92 and 93 in South Tyrone. I have no immediate plans to re-open the road at Annaghroe or the bridge at Knockaginny Wood.

Mr. Ingram

A letter was sent on 11 September 1998 to the Chief Constable of the RUC outlining the provisions of the Criminal Justice (Terrorism and Conspiracy) Act 1998 and suggesting a form of words for an additional special warning be given to anyone being questioned about membership of a specified organisation, in order that they are aware of the implications of failing to mention a fact material to the offence. The letter also emphasises that inferences can be drawn only where the accused has had access to a solicitor before questioning. A copy of the letter is being placed in the Library today. Further advice on the administration of the 1998 Act will be issued in due course.

Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what is the current prison population of members or associates of each specified proscribed organisation. [56392]

Mr. Ingram

Information is held for management purposes in relation to the perceived paramilitary association of prisoners where applicable. It should be noted, however, that with the exception of HMP Maze where such links are more clearly defined, this information is based on a combination of factors including the offence, sympathies and associates. These figures do not include prisoners who are regarded as having only either Loyalist or Republican sympathies.

The most recent statistics for the week commencing 26 October 1998 are as follows: