§ 51. Captain WEDGWOOD BENNasked the Prime Minister whether the Government have been requested by the Government of Northern Ireland to assist in reviewing the cases of political prisoners convicted in Northern Ireland, with a view to an amnesty being granted?
§ 55. Mr. BUCHANANasked the Prime Minister if the Government of Northern Ireland have approached His Majesty's Government with a view to the consideration of the release or otherwise of certain persons now in prison in this country for alleged political offences committed in Northern Ireland; and if he is now in a position to make a statement on the subject?
§ The PRIME MINISTERHis Majesty's Government have undertaken to review the cases of prisoners convicted in Northern Ireland in respect of offences during the period of disturbance and the Government of Northern Ireland have agreed to accept the result of this review.
§ Captain BENNCan the right hon. Gentleman say when the review will be completed and whether the results will be made public?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI cannot answer that question yet, but obviously the results will be made public.
§ Mr. BUCHANANIn view of the desire for an early peace in Ireland, will there be an early result of this inquiry and will the persons appointed undertake the task at an early date?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI cannot give any date, but the examination will be proceeded with forthwith.
§ Mr. BUCHANANCan he say on behalf of the Government who will undertake the investigation?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThe responsibility is the Cabinet's responsibility.