Written question asked by William Ross (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 26 April 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 11 May 2001. It was answered by Adam Ingram (Labour) on Friday, 11 May 2001 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what progress has been made on the decommissioning of terrorist weapons since 1st May 2000.

Answer: Mr. William Ross: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made on the decommissioning of terrorist weapons since 1 May 2000. [159865] Mr. Ingram: Mr. Ramaphosa and Mr. Artisaari have reported that they have completed a second inspection of several IRA dumps. On both occasions they reported the dumps held a substantial amount of military material, including explosives and weapons. They remain confident that these weapons and explosives cannot be used without them being aware of it. This together with the Decommissioning Commission's statement in March announcing its re-engagement with the IRA, represents further progress and an honouring of commitments given by the IRA at the beginning of May 2000.

Secondary information