Controversy over the alleged shoot-to-kill policy in the North had grave implications for cross-border co-operation, while Anglo-Irish relations suffered a “serious setback”, newly released state files reveal.

A British soldier will face prosecution for the manslaughter of Aidan McAnespie, a law firm representing his family has confirmed.

Relatives of those killed in the Lockerbie bombing 27 years ago have welcomed the identification of two Libyans as suspects in the investigation.