HC Deb 19 July 1978 vol 954 cc223-4W
Mr. Fitt

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) whether the Royal Ulster Constabulary will be permitted to interview the soldiers involved in the killing of John Boyle on 11th July in Northern Ireland;

(2) whether the Royal Ulster Constabulary will be able to question the use of the yellow card instructions, during the course of the inquiry into the death of John Boyle on 11th July in Northern Ireland;

(3) whether the Royal Ulster Constabulary inquiry into the death of John Boyle will be able to question the officers of the soldiers involved in the killing;

(4) whether the Royal Ulster Constabulary inquiry into the death of John Boyle will be able to question the instructions given to the soldiers involved in this incident.

Mr. Mason

The conduct of the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of John Boyle is a matter for the Chief Constable. The police may of course question anyone whom they believe they can assist them about matters which they consider relevant to their investigation.

Mr. Fitt

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland when he expects the report of the inquiry by the Royal Ulster Constabulary into the killing of John Boyle by members of the security forces on 11th July.

Mr. Mason

It is not possible, at this stage, to forecast when police inquiries will be completed.

Mr. Fitt

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will facilitate arrangements for the holding of an inquest into the death of John Boyle on 11th July in Northern Ireland.

Mr. Mason

The decision on the timing of the inquest into the death of John Boyle is solely a matter for the coroner.