Written question asked by David Burnside (Independent Unionist) on Tuesday, 14 October 2003, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 18 November 2003. It was answered by Lord Murphy of Torfaen (Labour) on Tuesday, 18 November 2003 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, whether the International Monitoring Commission has the authority to investigate the allegations of activities by the Provisional IRA and members of Sinn Fein in (a) Colombia and (b) Florida; and what sanctions it has power to recommend.

Answer: David Burnside: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether the International Monitoring Commission has the authority to investigate the allegations of activities by the Provisional IRA and members of Sinn Fein in (a) Colombia and (b) Florida; and what sanctions it has power to recommend. [132895] Mr. Paul Murphy: The Independent Monitoring Commission will decide what matters are relevant to the exercise of its functions, which are set out in the draft International Agreement published on 4 September. However, the Agreement makes clear that the focus of the Commission will be on continuing activity by paramilitary groups. In line with Article 7 of the draft International Agreement, the Commission's reports shall recommend any remedial action considered necessary. The Commission may also recommend what measures, if any, it considers might appropriately be taken by the Northern Ireland Assembly. Such measures are limited to those which the Northern Ireland Assembly has power to take under relevant United Kingdom legislation.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 413 c774W; 132895
Session: 2002-03
Subjects: Powers Proscribed organisations Northern Ireland Independent Monitoring Commission Colombia Terrorism USA Sanctions Sinn Féin
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk