“ In grave emergencies, such as a state of war, communities often draw together in a political coalition because the community of interest transcends ordinary divisions. There is, however, one absolutely essential, prerequisite if a coalition is to succeed. ”

“ But we have also seen it argued that a more general cause of the disorders both there and in Belfast has been the slowing down or reversal of reforms to which my predecessor's Government was committed. That is absolutely and monstrously untrue. On May 21 with my colleagues and I went to see Harold Wilson and I outlined to him in precise detail our intentions in relation to reform, giving the precise timetable we intend to follow, including the enactment of various major pieces of legislation in the present session of Parliament. ”

“ The Army is here to assist the civil authority. The civil authority is not concealing anything from the Army, nor is it taking any unilateral decisions about their deployment. The best joint use of troops and police is decided in full and regular consultation on the best information about the overall situation available to both civil and military authorities. One saw this position operating yesterday in relation to the Ardoyne area of Belfast. Information about the situation in that area was fully considered within the joint machinery and troops deployed yesterday evening. ”

“ On the basis of intelligence reports the situation prevailing and anticipated is very fully assessed. Any evidence of likely disorder in any particular area is fed into the assessment. It is on this basis that the deployment of troops for the following 24 hours is decided. Their actual management within that role is, of course, a matter for their own commanders. If at any time the position revealed is one beyond the joint capacity of police and Army at existing strength, machinery exists for the very rapid consideration of possible reinforcement. ”

“ The real cause of the disorder is to be found in the activities of extreme Republican elements and others determined to overthrow our state. That is why we have found it necessary to detain a considerable number of known and dangerous agitators. ”