HC Deb 21 December 2000 vol 360 cc256-7W
Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (1) how many police personnel were questioned in the investigation of complaints made by Mr. Bernard Griffin; if he will list the issues of fact established in the criminal court; and how many disciplinary cases are pending; [142325]

(2) if he will make a statement on the conviction of Darren James Neill and Michael Magowan; [142326]

(3) if he will investigate the breakdown of discipline at Oldpark RUC barracks in February 1998; [142328]

(4) if he will list those criminal convictions in which statements by or evidence of RUC officers Darren James Neill and Michael Magowan was given or taken into account; how many individuals are currently serving a custodial sentence as a result of such convictions; how he plans to ensure that those individuals who may be eligible to have their convictions reviewed are informed of their rights; and how many individuals are so affected. [142330]

Mr. Ingram

There is to be a judicial review associated with this case and it would therefore be inappropriate to comment at this time.

Mr. McNamara

To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he received(a) in mitigation of the offences of and (b) seeking early release for Darren James Neill, Michael Magowan, Andrew Timothy Lea and Matthew Shane Butcher. [142327]

Mr. Ingram

I have received no representations in mitigation of the offences of these four individuals or seeking the early release of Darren James Neill and Michael Magowan. Andrew Timothy Lea and Matthew Shane Butcher did not receive a custodial sentence for their offence but were each fined £1,000.

One representation was received from a Member of the Northern Ireland Assembly in relation to Mr. Neill, asking that everything possible be done to protect the prisoner from threats and abuse from other prisoners. As Mr. Neill and Mr. Magowan were not convicted for a qualifying offence under the terms of the Northern Ireland (Sentences) Act 1998, they do not qualify for early release under the Good Friday Agreement.