Q34 Mr. Dave Anderson: You were asked about whether you would allow political interference to play a part in the future and you said you would not, but there have been some references that we have had that some people make the case that the whole doing away with ARA is a sop to Sinn Fein. Is there any truth in that?

Mr Coaker: There is absolutely, categorically no truth in that. There was no consultation or liaison with respect to Sinn Fein or anybody in coming to this decision. It was a decision taken by ourselves as being the best way for taking this work forward in Northern Ireland. Just to reassure the Committee, there is absolutely no truth in it.

Paul Goggins: I also have seen and heard that speculation and that is what it is. It is an utter fabrication. Wherever it came from, there is absolutely no truth in it at all.

Chairman: It is good to have that on the record.

This is an uncorrected transcript of evidence taken in public and reported to the House. The transcript has been placed on the internet on the authority of the Committee. Neither witnesses nor Members have had the opportunity to correct the record. The transcript is not yet an approved formal record of these proceedings.

The full transcript is available at http://www.parliament.the-stationery-office.co.uk/pa/cm200607/cmselect/cmniaf/uc417-i/uc41702.htm

Promoted by Paul Foy on behalf of Dave Anderson, both of St Cuthbert's Church Hall, Shibdon Road, Blaydon, NE21 5PT