Written question asked by Lord Kilclooney (Ulster Unionist Party), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 18 July 1996. It was answered by John Wheeler (Conservative) on Thursday, 18 July 1996 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: How many plastic bullets have been fired in the vicinity of Drumcree, Portadown since Sunday 6th July; how many civilians have been injured by the use of these bullets at Drumcree; and how many of the bullets have been fired at close range. - Inc figures.

Answer: Mr. Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many plastic bullets have been fired in the vicinity of Drumcree, Portadown since Sunday 6 July; how many civilians have been injured by the use of these bullets at Drumcree; and how many of the bullets have been fired at close range.[37161] Sir John Wheeler: Plastic bullets are not in use in Northern Ireland, but 90 plastic baton rounds were fired in the Portadown sub-divisional area between 6 a.m. on Sunday 7 July and noon on Thursday 11 July. Four persons are alleged to have been injured as a result. The RUC has strict guidelines governing the use of plastic baton rounds, including the range of fire; their usage is carefully monitored as a matter of policy.

Secondary information