HC Deb 21 May 2003 vol 405 cc800-1W
11. Bob Spink

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent representations he has received on decommissioning. [113811]

Jane Kennedy

I can confirm that the Provisional IRA and the UDA have recently been engaged in talks with the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning. However, the Prime Minister stated clearly in his speech on 1 May 2003 that an undertaking is needed that 'all' arms will be put beyond use through the IICD.

15. Sir Nicholas Winterton

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent discussions he has had with Sinn Fein about meaningful decommissioning of terrorist weapons. [113815]

Jane Kennedy

Clarity on the issue of an end to paramilitary activity, including the decommissioning of all arms, has been a central focus of our discussions with the parties—including Sinn Fein—on the restoration of the institutions on a stable and inclusive basis. We have been clear that all paramilitary activity, as specified in paragraph 13 of the Joint Declaration, must come to an end. We call on all paramilitary organisations to engage with the Independent International Commission on Decommissioning and put all weapons beyond use.