§ Mr. Powellasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he expects the inquiry into the recent escape of prisoners awaiting trial at Newry to be completed; and in what form he intends thereafter to make a public statement.
§ Mr. Merlyn Rees:The Governor of Her Majesty's Prison Maze, has, under the Prison Code of Discipline, referred to the Northern Ireland Office the question of disciplinary action arising from the escape of prisoners from the Newry Courthouse on 10th March 1975. In accordance with the provisions of that code, an inquiry will be held. It will take place within the next week or so.
If disciplinary action is proposed, any prison officer concerned has a right of appeal to me. It would, therefore, be inappropriate for me to make any statement at the present time.