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Terrorism (Northern Ireland) Bill

We should extend the powers if that is necessary to provide the protection that is needed by the people of Northern Ireland against intimidation and violence. I endorse completely the Secretary of State’s comments that defending the right of the people of Northern Ireland to live secure lives, free from threat, should be the first priority of any Government and any legislation. The combination of time limits, the requirement for regular parliamentary renewal of powers and the certificating-out procedure has provided flexibility in the application of these powers to particular cases. The Secretary of State said that we have seen a steady reduction in the number of cases in which it was considered necessary and appropriate to have the case tried before a judge sitting alone. Clearly, I want to see the day when Northern Ireland can do without any emergency powers of this nature. However, after 30 years of terrorism, during which the terrorist organisations have become so entrenched in the life of Northern Ireland, we must not jump too easily or rapidly to the conclusion that we will be able to dispense with emergency powers quickly.