§ Mr. FlynnTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) what assessment he has made of the decision to release John Haase and Paul Bennett from gaol; and if he will make a statement; [30447]
(2) what protection has been provided from public funds to John Haase and Paul Bennett following their convictions for heroin smuggling and their release from gaol; [30451]
(3) what arrests and convictions resulted from information supplied to the Customs or police by John Haase and Paul Bennett after their convictions for heroin smuggling. [30448]
§ Mr. MichaelI understand that the former Home Secretary recommended to Her Majesty the exercise of the Royal Prerogative of Mercy in this case, following an initiative of the judge who had passed sentence. It is not for me to comment on that decision.
48WInformation provided to assist the police and customs with their investigations is sensitive and is handled confidentially. I am unable to say whether arrests and convictions resulted from the assistance provided by these two men. They have not been provided with protection paid for from public funds.