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NI Chief Constable Eyes Release of Controversial 1973 Report

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Jon Boutcher, Northern Ireland's Chief Constable, is reviewing the 1973 MI5 file known as the Morton report to decide if it can be published.
The Morton report outlines police strategies against the IRA during the Troubles.
Boutcher, a transparency advocate, says the review could release this and other legacy documents in 2024.
Daniel Holder, a human rights advocate, criticizes the UK government's inaction and secrecy around the Morton report.

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Story summary

Jon Boutcher, Northern Ireland's Chief Constable, is reviewing the 1973 MI5 file known as the Morton report to decide if it can be published.
The Morton report outlines police strategies against the IRA during the Troubles.
Boutcher, a transparency advocate, says the review could release this and other legacy documents in 2024.
Daniel Holder, a human rights advocate, criticizes the UK government's inaction and secrecy around the Morton report.