The proposals are in line with those we outlined in an article earlier this month: immunity in exchange for honest testimony.
Would it be worth abandoning long-shot hopes of criminal prosecution to get evidence on the record before the witnesses die?
Also: Ministers give opponents of Troubles amnesty six weeks to propose alternatives and square off to the devocrats over freeports.
Formerly an adviser to six secretaries of state for Northern Ireland, his idea involves no changes to the law – and a certificate system.
The proposition is backed by more than a third of those prepared to say how they’d vote – including an overwhelming majority of Tories.
To deliver on his promise to the House of Commons, the Secretary of State will need to overcome deeply entrenched attitudes in his own Department.
The Prime Minister pledged to defend those who defended us. I believe him.
Also: Labour’s civil war on Scottish independence deepens; Scottish Government pays Salmond half a million pounds in damages; and more.
Also: Ministry of Defence and Northern Irish Office clash over protecting ex-servicemen and police; and another bad week for Scottish Labour.
“If you’re dealing, effectively, with a negotiating partner who is now depending on threats, much better to face those threats down now, and confidently.”
Also: Government accused of ‘appeasing the IRA’ over Ulster veterans; Welsh Labour leadership hopefuls in data row; and DUP urge end to Stormont boycott.
Also: Welsh Tories criticise Jones’ delayed departure; Welsh Labour row over voting reform continues; Trimble attacks ‘scaremongering’ over Ulster; and more.
He also addresses the question of the Northern Irish border and tariff-free trade with the Republic of Ireland.
Also: May ‘intensifies’ work with devolved leaders on Brexit; Brokenshire attacks one-sided Troubles inquiries; Scottish Labour will ‘never’ back another referendum; and more.
More work is needed to ensure proper protection for ex-servicemen and give victims’ families a chance at the truth.