Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Northern Ireland Office

Oral Answers to Questions

David Rutley Excerpts
Wednesday 6th March 2013

(11 years, 2 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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The Secretary of State was asked—
David Rutley Portrait David Rutley (Macclesfield) (Con)
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1. What discussions she has had with political leaders about recent disturbances in Northern Ireland.

Theresa Villiers Portrait The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mrs Theresa Villiers)
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I have had regular discussions with the First Minister and Deputy First Minister and other political leaders in Northern Ireland about the disturbances of recent months. The protests should now end. A way forward that commands broadly based support can be found only through dialogue and working together.

David Rutley Portrait David Rutley
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In the light of the recent successful interception of four mortar bombs by the police in Northern Ireland, will my right hon. Friend tell the House what steps she is taking to counter the work of terrorists whose aim is to kill and maim innocent people?

Theresa Villiers Portrait Mrs Villiers
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The attempted terrorist attack this week demonstrates how severe the terrorist threat continues to be in Northern Ireland. It was only through the highly effective action of the Police Service of Northern Ireland and its partners that mass casualties were averted. The Government remain vigilant in the face of the threat and have included it as a tier 1 priority in their national security strategy.