§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
What are the details of the arms find of last weekend in the Ormeau area of Belfast; what they consider are the origins and dates of the material found; and who they think was responsible for the arms. [HL2326]
§ Lord Williams of MostynOn 22 March 2003, as a result of a police operation, an AKM assault rifle and a large quantity of ammunition, along with other items, were discovered in Essex Street, Lower Ormeau Road, Belfast. A number of items have been sent for forensic examination and at this stage it is too early to provide details as to the origin and age of the weapons, timer power units and the other items seized. The police have stated that they believe the Provisional IRA was responsible. Two persons have been charged in connection with this incident and police inquiries are continuing.