§ 19. Mr. CorbynTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what consideration he is giving to referring to the Court of Appeal convictions arising from the Casement Park murders.
§ Mr. MatesMy right hon. and learned Friend has received a number of representations relating to the cases of three of those convicted—Mr. Patrick Kane, Mr. Michael Timmons and Mr. Sean Kelly. These, together with issues raised in the recent BBC TV "Rough Justice" programme which featured Mr. Kane's case, are currently being thoroughly examined to see whether or not there are grounds to justify a reference, the normal criterion for which is that there is some new evidence, or other consideration of substance, which has not already been before the courts and which casts doubt on the safety of the conviction. No representations have been received in respect of any other convictions relating to the events surrounding the Casement Park murders.