Direct Rule, hunger strikes

Question 1

How did direct rule come about.

Answer 1

• The British government were shocked at NIs increasing violence especially after Bloody Sunday
• After Bloody Sunday Brian Faulkner wanted to bring back B-specials and arm the RUC (Police)
• The british government denied this and wanted control over security policy in Ni but Unionists refused
• The Unionist MPs were brought to Stormont and given a list of demands

Question 2

What were British Government demands in 1972

Answer 2

• They wanted control over security policy
• A British secretary of state that will control issues of NI
• End of internment
• A referendum must be held of who the people of Ni want to belong.
• Talks involving all parties should be held to find a solution.

Question 3

Unionist reactions to Government demands/ direct rule

Answer 3

• The entire NI government resigned
• Heath on the 24th of March and suspended Stormont for a year (Direct rule)
• Unionists were outraged as they seen the government as theirs and was their defence against a United Ireland