§ Mr. BurtTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will arrange for copies of the annual report of the Independent Commission for Police Complaints for Northern Ireland to be laid before the House; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CopeThe report has been laid today. This second report from the commission describes the work of the commission in the first calendar year of its existence. It clearly demonstrates the extent and importance of the work of a civilian body in overseeing the investigation of complaints against the police. It shows also that the commission has set for itself high standards of objectivity and fairness. That is entirely as it should be. I share with members of the commission the belief that arrangements to ensure that complaints are thoroughly and impartially investigated are essential if a police force is to have the trust and confidence of the community which it serves. I 273W have no doubt that the commission, which is wholly independent of both Government and the RUC, will continue to make a significant contribution to the strengthening of relationships between police and public. In all its efforts to this end, it can be assured of my full support.