We recognise the fundamental importance of balancing information disclosure with national security issues. Someone has to strike that balance. The Government did not undertake that role under the previous “Package of Measures” for investigating Troubles-related cases, nor does it under Operation Kenova. It will do, however, under the Troubles Bill. This is of course not an issue for the terrorist organisations that caused so much harm and suffering during the Troubles. It was not their modus ...

We recognise the fundamental importance of balancing information disclosure with national security issues. Someone has to strike that balance. The Government did not undertake that role under the previous “Package of Measures” for investigating Troubles-related cases, nor does it under Operation Kenova. It will do, however, under the Troubles Bill. This is of course not an issue for the terrorist organisations that caused so much harm and suffering during the Troubles. It was not their modus operandi to keep records. Despite some loosening of disclosure restrictions, however, trust and confidence in the process among some groups still needs t Type: conclusion | Number: 21 | Response status: not_accepted Government response: National security is the first responsibility of the Government, and the Secretary of State is accountable to Parliament on matters of national security. Some information—even if historic—has present day implications for the life and safety of individuals, and nat