§ 21. Dr. PalmerTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what further discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland political parties regarding the implementation of the Patten Commission's recommendations on policing in Northern Ireland. [117436]
§ Mr. IngramThe Government consulted widely on the implementation of the Patten Commission's recommendations as required by the Good Friday Agreement. Although formal consultation ended at the end of November 1999 Ministers and officials have continued to meet the political parties to discuss a range of issues in the Patten Report. These meetings are part of the Government's effort to listen to concerns and put the Government's message across with a view to obtaining the widest possible acceptance and understanding of the Government's decisions in making the police service in Northern Ireland more representative, acceptable and accountable.