asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) what proportion of the members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary are Catholics; and if he will make a statement on recruitment policies;(2) how many senior positions in the Royal Ulster Constabulary are held by Catholics.

The religious denominations of members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary are not recorded. It is, however, believed that approximately one tenth of the force (including its full-time reserve) are Roman Catholic. The Royal Ulster Constabulary will continue to try to attract suitably qualified recruits from all parts of the community.Promotions within the RUC are made on merit alone.