To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how long it took for the police to arrive at the entrance of the Great Hall, Stormont Parliament building following the security alert on 24 November; and if he will make a statement. (104735)

The security alert at Parliament buildings on 24 November 2006 began at 10.55 am. Security staff in Parliament buildings made an emergency call at 11.11 am to the PSNI Operational System requesting assistance.

The PSNI arrived at Parliament buildings at 11.16 am, five minutes after the emergency call was placed.

I pay tribute to the response of all staff at the Parliament buildings following the alert.