Ulster law chief ‘tries to muzzle Press’

THE chief prosecutor deciding the fate of ex-soldiers who served in Northern Ireland was accused yesterday of trying to ‘muzzle’ concerns about his links to Sinn Fein.

A Tory former defence minister used Parliamentary privilege to claim Barra McGrory was attempting to stifle discussion over his ‘impartiality’.

Sir Gerald Howarth revealed the legal chief’s extraordinary threat to silence the Press and Westminster over his connections to Sinn Fein leaders Gerry Adams and Martin McGuinness.

Up to 1,000 retired soldiers in their 60s and 70s face a witch-hunt after it emerged that police are re-examining every British Army killing during the Troubles.

As the Province’s Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr McGrory has the final say on if ex- servicemen should be prosecuted. He has faced calls to step down as he has represented Mr McGuinness and Mr Adams.

Following criticism, Mr McGrory sent notices to the media warning against questioning his impartiality and threatening to sue for ‘exemplary damages’. His action was blasted as ‘shocking’ and ‘outrageous’ in the Commons during a debate on the political crisis in the Province.

Sir Gerald also read out the legal warning. He then added: ‘Is this not an attempt to muzzle Parliament and, indeed, to question the right of [Parliament] to support those soldiers who sought to bring about peace in Northern Ireland?’

A Public Prosecution Service spokesman said it was ‘wholly independent of all political parties and the political system’, adding: ‘We are aware of Sir Gerald’s viewpoint in relation to the cases involving soldiers.’