Written question asked by Martin Smyth (Ulster Unionist Party) on Thursday, 3 February 2005, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 8 February 2005. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Tuesday, 8 February 2005 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, if he will introduce legislation to bring Northern Ireland arrangements for interagency assessment and management of violent offenders into line with those of England and Wales.

Answer: Rev. Martin Smyth: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will introduce legislation to bring Northern Ireland arrangements for interagency assessment and management of violent offenders into line with those of England and Wales. [214821] Mr. Spellar: The first thematic inspection by the Criminal Justice Inspectorate Northern Ireland (CJINI) is a review of the multi-agency procedures for the risk assessment and management of sex offenders in Northern Ireland. Included in the terms of reference for the inspection is an assessment of the potential implications of legislating to place the procedures on a statutory footing and extending them to include violent offenders. I will consider the issue raised by the hon. Gentleman in light of the findings in the Chief Inspector's report, which I understand will shortly to be submitted to the Secretary of State.

Secondary information