Inquiry into 'King Rat' death rejected

The North's security minister, Jane Kennedy, has rejected a call by the DUP deputy leader, Peter Robinson, for an inquiry into the murder of loyalist Billy Wright.

Mr Robinson told the House of Commons he has new information about the murder which shows the authorities knew in advance that there were plans to shoot Wright in jail.

Billy Wright, 37, also known as King Rat, was the leader of the LVF when he was shot dead by the INLA in the Maze jail in December 1997.

Peter Robinson says he was anonymously sent what he believes to be the police file on Wright's murder.

He says it shows the prison authorities knew a murder was being planned and that Wright's death could have been prevented.

In response, Stormont Security Minister Jane Kennedy said the British government believed a public inquiry was unnecessary as the death had already been investigated and those responsible convicted.