Mr. John David Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what effect the suspension of the deputy chief constable of Greater Manchester, Mr. John Stalker, has on the preparation of his report on operations by the Royal Ulster Constabulary in County Armagh; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Tom KingMr. John Stalker was appointed on 24 May 1984 by the Chief Constable of the Royal Ulster Constabulary to head a team of police officers from the Greater Manchester force to carry out an inquiry in Northern Ireland. I understand that he submitted an interim report to the Chief Constable on 18 September 1985, amd that it was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions (NI) on 13 February 1986. On 4 March 1986, the Director directed that further investigations be undertaken.
I understand that this task will be completed by the same inquiry team, consisting of the same officers. The Chief Constable has, however, announced that, in view of the leave of absence of Mr. Stalker, and after consultation with and on the recommendation of Her Majesty's Inspector of Constabulary, he has asked Mr. Colin Sampson, the chief constable of West Yorkshire, to take over the leadership of the team.
The Chief Constable of the RUC stressed that he is anxious that the intended investigation should be completed quickly and professionally so that he may receive the DPP's directions.