HL Deb 20 September 1972 vol 335 cc1274-6WA
LORD HYLTON

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they are satisfied that the constitution and powers of Interpol are adequate in the current climate of international violence, and whether they consider that the powers and duties of this organisation should be strengthened in order that persons who have committed or who may commit murder may be apprehended or brought under surveillance, whatever their murderous motivation may be.

VISCOUNT COLVILLE OF CULROSS

My Lords, Interpol is an organisation the aims of which are to promote mutual assistance between police forces and to contribute to the prevention and suppression of ordinary crimes. It is precluded by its constitution from undertaking activities of a political nature, but Her Majesty's Government have no reason to suppose that this provision has hampered co-operation between police forces of different countries in investigating or taking action to prevent criminal offences including murder. Her Majesty's Government will be taking part in discussions with other European countries on the scope for co-ordinating action against terrorist activity.

House adjourned at six minutes before eleven o'clock.