Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Owen Paterson and Michael Ellis

Wednesday 30th November 2011 Commons Chamber

[Michael Ellis (Northampton North) (Con)]

1. What progress has been made by the Historical Enquiries Team; and if he will make a statement.

[The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland (Mr Owen Paterson)]

Following the devolution of policing and justice in April 2010, matters relating to the Historical Enquiries Team are the responsibility of the devolved Administration in Northern Ireland and the Minister of Justice.

[Michael Ellis]

I much appreciate the Minister’s response and the content of it. I welcome the progress made by the Historical Enquiries Team. May I be reassured that its case work will be completed by 2014?

[Mr Paterson]

I am grateful for my hon. Friend’s question. I spoke to the Chief Constable this morning, who confirmed that the team is investigating 3,268 deaths and that it is on target to finish as planned.