Security forces colluded in murders says Stevens

The security forces in Northern Ireland did collude with loyalist paramilitaries in the murder of Catholic solicitor Pat Finucane and Protestant student Brian Lambert, the Stevens report has found.

The 24-page report, which has been described as an interim report, was published today – 14 years after his first investigation into the disputed murders was launched.

In his report Sir John concludes that there is enough evidence uncovered to "lead me to believe that the murders of Patrick Finucane and Brian Adam Lambert could have been prevented".

He added: "I also believe that the RUC investigation of Patrick Finucane ’s murder should have resulted in the early arrest and detection of his killers.

"I conclude there was collusion in both murders and the circumstances surrounding them. Collusion is evidenced in many ways. This ranges from the wilful failure to keep records, the absence of accountability, the withholding of intelligence and evidence, through to the extreme of agents being involved in murder."

Sir John also accuses the security services of obstructing his investigation, which he describes as "cultural and widespread" within parts of the army and the RUC.

Among his recommendations outlined in the report, Sir John calls for: guidelines on the use of agents in countering terrorism to be drawn up; a full review of training for all agent handlers; the PSNI to carry out a full review of all their methods and processes of exhibit management and their procedures for investigating terrorist offences; and the appointment of an Assistant Chief Constable with single responsibility for the Anti-Terrorist Branch.

The Stevens enquiry has been the largest investigation undertaken in the United Kingdom – resulting in 9,256 statements being taken, 10,391 documents recorded (totalling over one million pages) and 16,194 exhibits seized.

The inquiry has led to 144 arrests, and so far 94 people have been convicted. To date 57 separate reports have been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (NI) for his direction.

(GMcG)