§ Mr. Stallardasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) when the Special Powers Act was last renewed; what is the normal procedure for its renewal; and if he will make a statement on this matter;
(2) when he expects to be able to make a report on the progress of the review of the Northern Ireland Special Powers Act; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WhitelawThe Civil Authorities (Special Powers) Act (Northern Ireland), 1922 was renewed annually by the Northern Ireland Parliament until 1928 when it was renewed for a period of five years. The Civil Authorities (Special Powers) Act (Northern Ireland), 1933 provided that the 1922 Act should remain in force until Parliament otherwise determined, and it has remained in force ever since. I have announced that I am reviewing the Act and the Regulations made under it. The review is under way and I will report to the House on its progress as soon as I can.