§ Mr. ShersbyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) how much police time is being devoted to investigating war crimes in accordance with the provisions of the War Crimes Act 1991;
(2) if he will make a statement on the future of investigations under the War Crimes Act 1991.
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§ Mr. Charles WardleThe Metropolitan police war crimes unit is staffed by 11 police officers and is supported by seven civilians. It was set up specifically to investigate allegations against war criminals arising from the War Crimes Act and it is dedicated full time to that task. As with other criminal offences, such investigations are entirely the responsibility of the police. I anticipate, though, that the unit's work should be completed by the end of the next financial year.