asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will pay an official visit to the border towns of Strabane and Castlederg following recent bomb explosions.

My right hon. Friend intends to visit the Strabane area in the near future.

I thank the Minister for that reply. I am sure that the Secretary of State will concede that a visit by him to these two towns, which are in close proximity to the border and have suffered appallingly in bomb attacks, would greatly encourage the responsible and loyal people there, who have suffered greatly, both personally and in respect of their property.

The Secretary of State is fully aware of that—which is why he intends to visit the area again in the very near future.