Human Rights (Advisory Commission Report)

HC Deb 06 March 1980 vol 980 cc343-4W

Mr. van Straubenzee

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he has received the fifth annual report of the Standing Advisory Commission on Human Rights; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

The report has been published today and copies have been laid before Parliament. It covers the period from 1 November 1978 to 31 October 1979.

The commission's major concern over the year has been its study of the operation of emergency legislation in the Province, and the report contains a number of recommendations on the subject.

The report also makes certain proposals on the commission's future role.

I am pleased to have this opportunity to express my gratitude to the commission for its work over the last year.