Written question asked by Norman A Godman (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 December 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 16 December 1999. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Thursday, 16 December 1999 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what recent representations he has received from (a) political parties and (b) community groups concerning the withdrawal of troops and the dismantling of military structures; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Dr. Godman: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent representations he has received from (a) political parties and (b) community groups concerning the withdrawal of troops and the dismantling of military structures; and if he will make a statement. [102622] Mr. Ingram: There have been a number of representations recently from both political parties and community groups for the dismantling of military structures in Belfast and in South Armagh and the withdrawal of troops from East Tyrone. On 3 December, my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State announced that a review is now under way, with the Chief Constable and GOC, which will focus particularly on specific security arrangements, including various installations throughout Northern Ireland, taking account of the prevailing threat. Any changes will of course depend on genuine cessations of violence and continued progress in the political process. The first phase of this review will be completed early in the new year. The Secretary of State has invited people who wish to send him their written views to do so by 14 January.

Secondary information