Letter: Sinn Fein 'success'; Army digs in; justice comes first

Sir: The questions currently occupying the discussions of polticians and political commentators about Northern Ireland focus around future IRA and loyalist actions. There are few questions about the future role of British troops in Northern Ireland. It is generally assumed that they will gradually return to barracks and disappear from the streets, leaving the Royal Ulster Constabulary to deal with security matters.

The evidence tells us otherwise. The recent reinforcement of the British base at Crossmaglen, South Armagh, complete with heavy fortification and sophisticated surveillance equipment is finished. Work has begun on the reinforcement of the British Army base in Newtownhamilton, South Armagh. These are actions of an army digging in, not pulling out.

In case we are still unsure of the future role of the British army, Sir Hugh Annesley, Chief Constable of the RUC, spelt it out on your letters page (25 August) when he stated that 'the Army in Northern Ireland continued to be essential for the support of the Royal Ulster Constabulary and could not possibly be withdrawn.' Even if the IRA and loyalists both declare a ceasefire, Sir Hugh makes it clear that the Army would still have a role to play: 'we will continue to rely heavily on the support of the armed forces . . .'.

Will the British troops pull out of Northern Ireland? The answer to this question, at least, is clear - an emphatic no.

Yours faithfully,

JANET SUGDEN

London, N19

31 August