HC Deb 06 May 1981 vol 4 cc93-4W
Mr. Michael Brown

asked the Secretary of Northern Ireland if he will make a statement about his meeting with the Pope's emissary.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

During my meeting with Father Magee on 29 April I expressed the Government's appreciation at the Pope's humanitarian concern over the hunger strike in Northern Ireland. I also explained Government policy on the question of political status for convicted prisoners. Arrangements were made for Father Magee to visit the four prisoners then on humger strike at Her Majesty's prison Maze.