§ Mr. MallonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what procedures are involved in the recording, safe-keeping, storage and retrieval of original police interview notes where criminal charges have been brought.
§ Mr. Mates[holding answer 25 February 1993]This is a matter for the Chief Constable of the RUC. However, I understand that new procedures have recently been 97W introduced relating to the recording of notes of interviews with persons detained under legislation dealing with terrorism. Loose leaf interview sheets have been replaced with booklets which are electronically dated and time stamped upon issue and upon completion of each interview. Additional measures have been introduced to safeguard the long-term storage and security of these interview notes.
§ Mr. MallonTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what steps have been taken by the Royal Ulster Constabulary to identify the whereabouts of the original police interview notes in the case of prisoner No. 708, H Block 5, A wing, HMP Maze, Belfast.
§ Mr. Mates[holding answer 25 February 1993]: This is a matter for the Chief Constable of the RUC. However, I understand that he has already written to the hon. Gentleman about this.