THE revelation that a car used by Sinn Fein during the crucial Northern Ireland peace talks was bugged begs the question not only of who did it but why. It is frightening to think what might have happened if this equipment had been found during the peace talks - and that the hope of that happening might have been the motive of those who placed it.

The spooks work in a murky world - and the possibility cannot be ruled out of dirty work by members of British intelligence opposed to the peace process.

All parties to the talks, including our government, should therefore agree to an inquiry by a neutral body in which Sinn Fein has confidence, for the truth to be found - and if need be, for heads to roll.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.