Strict Security

Strict security arrangements have been put in place for today's unprecedented visit to a prison where, just two weeks ago, an inmate was shot dead.

While an investigation into the shooting of "King Rat" Billy Wright is continuing, officials are taking no chances with the safety of Mo Mowlam.

"The governor of the Maze, Martin Mogg, has said he can guarantee the safety of the Secretary of State," said a spokesman for the Northern Ireland office. "In addition she will be accompanied by her own team of protection officers from the RUC ... she will not be visiting any sensitive areas within the prison." Talks are expected to begin at around 10.30am in a private office and are expected to last for around an hour.