HC Deb 24 May 1974 vol 874 cc319-20W
Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many internees or detainees have been released from Northern Ireland prison camps since 28th February 1974; how many were Loyalist; how many were Nationalist or Republican; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

During the period 1st March to 19th May 1974, 60 detainees were released. Of this total 21 were released by commissioners on first hearing, 37 discharged by commissioners on review and two released by me. It is not my policy to give details of the religious or political affiliations of detainees.

Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many men who were arrested in 1971 are still interned in Northern Ireland prison camps; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

34 men who were detained or interned in 1971 are still detained in Her Majesty's Prison, Maze under the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1973.

Mr. Stallard

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland how many people, male and female, are currently held in detention in Northern Ireland; and how many have been in detention for three months or more.

Mr. Merlyn Rees

604 men and 26 women are detained in Northern Ireland under the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1973. 508 men and nine women have been detained for three months or longer. 386 men and eight women are detained by order of a commissioner, 218 men and 18 women are held under interim custody orders.