A group of House Republicans on Tuesday called on the Homeland Security Department to build 700 miles of double-layered fencing along the border with Mexico, as required under a 2006 law.

Leading the group, Rep. Walter Jones, R-N.C., has introduced legislation that would place such a mandate on the department. Congress removed the requirements in the 2006 law as part of the fiscal 2008 omnibus appropriations bill.

But the Republicans said they are committed to seeing the fencing built. 'This to me is a matter of national security,' Jones said during a news conference. 'We believe sincerely that this issue cannot be delayed. ....