§ Mr. StottTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what representations he has received from the Chief Constable of Northern Ireland concerning the right to silence; what specific issues have been raised with him by the Chief Constable relating to the proposed changes to the present criminal justice and public order legislation in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir John WheelerI assume that the hon. Member is referring to the "right of silence" provisions contained in the Criminal Justice and Public Order Bill. My right hon. and learned Friend has received no representations from the 'Chief Constable of the Royal Ulster Constabulary about the provisions on inferences from silence contained in the Bill.