Q&A WRITTEN REPLIES

POLICE POWERS: Tough new powers for the Royal Ulster Constabulary to deal with criminals were announced by Sir Patrick Mayhew, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, last night. The moves, disclosed in a Commons written reply, will enable the RUC to make greater use of DNA analysis and allow it to deal swiftly with those who abuse police bail and individuals who are unlawfully at large.

The powers bring Ulster into line with changes in Britain under the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act.