Difference between revisions of "N officers 3"

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|- style="vertical-align:top;"
 
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
 
| HN353
 
| HN353
| ''unknown''
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| ''Gary Roberts''
| Minded-to (25 Jan 2018): grant restriction over real name; no application to restrict their cover name made.<ref name="ucpi.pr.25Jan18">[https://www.ucpi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/20180124-December-minded-to-press-note.pdf Press Notice: Decisions relating to anonymity applications: Special Demonstration Squad], ''Undercover Policing Inquiry'', 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).</ref>
+
| Cover name released.<ref name="email.ucpi.1May2018">Email to core participants, '20180501_UCPI_to_all_CPs_publishing_HN3_HN19_HN20_HN60_HN218_HN353', ''Undercover Research Group'', 1 May 2018, referencing update of the webpage <a href="https://www.ucpi.org.uk/cover-names/">UCPI.org.u/cover-names</a>.</ref> Minded-to (25 Jan 2018): grant restriction over real name; no application to restrict their cover name made.<ref name="ucpi.pr.25Jan18">[https://www.ucpi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/20180124-December-minded-to-press-note.pdf Press Notice: Decisions relating to anonymity applications: Special Demonstration Squad], ''Undercover Policing Inquiry'', 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).</ref>
| SDS UCO, deployed against two left-wing groups between 1974-1978. Mitting is of the opinion the deployment was unremarkable and there is no known allegation of misconduct against him.
+
| SDS UCO, deployed against two left-wing groups between 1974-1978 - International Socialists / Socialist Workers Party and the International Marxist Group. Mitting is of the opinion the deployment was unremarkable and there is no known allegation of misconduct against him.
  
 
Does not live in the United Kingdom, but is cooperating with the Inquiry. According to Mitting (Jan 2018), publication of his cover name 'will serve to prompt evidence from those whom he encountered while deployed, if they can remember him and having anything to say about his deployment'. HN353 also wishes to avoid causing apprehension and worry to his wife or subject either of them to media intrusion. Thus, the intereference in his Article 8(2) 'right to respect for private and family life of him and his wife which would be occasioned by publication of his real name would not be justified'.<ref name="mitting.mindedto4.25Jan2018">Sir John Mitting, [https://www.ucpi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/20180125-December-tranche-impact-led-and-HN353-minded-to-sanitised.pdf In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005. Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and Special Demonstration Squad - 'Minded To' Note 4], ''Undercover Policing Inquiry'', 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).</ref>
 
Does not live in the United Kingdom, but is cooperating with the Inquiry. According to Mitting (Jan 2018), publication of his cover name 'will serve to prompt evidence from those whom he encountered while deployed, if they can remember him and having anything to say about his deployment'. HN353 also wishes to avoid causing apprehension and worry to his wife or subject either of them to media intrusion. Thus, the intereference in his Article 8(2) 'right to respect for private and family life of him and his wife which would be occasioned by publication of his real name would not be justified'.<ref name="mitting.mindedto4.25Jan2018">Sir John Mitting, [https://www.ucpi.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/20180125-December-tranche-impact-led-and-HN353-minded-to-sanitised.pdf In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005. Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and Special Demonstration Squad - 'Minded To' Note 4], ''Undercover Policing Inquiry'', 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).</ref>

Revision as of 18:56, 2 May 2018


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This article is part of the Undercover Research Portal at Powerbase: investigating corporate and police spying on activists.


Part of a series on the
Undercover
Policing Inquiry
N Officers list
Description: A list of N & HN cyphers used to designate individual officers in the Inquiry and by Operation Herne (Part 3)

Police officers cited in the Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI) are generally designated by a cypher / nominal starting with N or HN followed by a number. The practice of assigning these cyphers was begun in by the Metropolitan Police inquiry Operation Herne which investigated the activities of the Special Demonstration Squad undercovers. It was subsequently adopted by Mark Ellison for his Review and the UCPI, both of which draw heavily on the material assembled by Operation Herne. The system appears to have changed in 2017, when the 3 August 2017 rulings and direction of the new Inquiry Chair, John Mitting, began using the 'HN' label, though the associated numbers appear to be unchanged.[1]

  • Updated 10 April 2018

N series officers part 3 (>300)

Cypher Name Status Notes
HN300 Jim / Jimmy Minded to (March 2018): real name cannot be published.[2] SDS UCO, deployed into Socialist Workers Party late 1974 - Jan 1977, in an unknown branch. Cover name unknown but may have included 'Jim' or 'Jimmy'. During deployment told another undercover that he had fallen in love with a member of his target group. Divorced from second wife 1979. Deceased.[2]

His second wife and two children have provided a joint statement about their experiences during his deployment and the impact disclosure of his real name may have on them; publishing his real name would interfere with their rights. If further information on his cover name becomes known to the Inquiry it will be published.[2]

11 January 2018, directions issued for any application for restriction orders to be submitted by 30 & 31 January 2018 for MPS and Designated Lawyers Team respectively.[3]

HN301 Bob Stubbs Ruling (Mar 2018): Real name name cannot be published.[4] SDS UCO. Deployed 1971-76 into the International Socialists (which became subsumed into another [Socialist Workers Party]), and reported on others. No allegations of misconduct against him.[5][6]

Mitting noted (Nov 2017):[5]

Publication of his cover name, which will occur, is all that is required to prompt evidence from those who encountered him in his undercover role, if they have any to give. Publication of his real name is unnecessary. It would also be a disproportionate and unjustified interference in his and his family’s right to respect for their private and family life under Article 8 of the European Convention. It would not be difficult to trace him if his real name were published. His family circumstances, which are fully set out in his impact statement, require that there should be no avoidable interference in them, even of a kind produced only by publicity resulting from legitimate media interest.

In his ruling, Mitting repeated his earlier arguments and added that HN301 is in his 70s.

Inquiry documents: Open restriction order application

Inquiry decisions: Minded-to (Nov 2017): Real name name cannot be published;[5] cover name to be published.[7] Cover name was released on 20 Feb 2018.[6] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict cover name with application to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8] Ruling (Mar 2018): Real name name cannot be published.[4]

HN302 unknown Minded to (March 2018): neither real nor cover name can be published.[2] SDS UCO. In 70s; deployed in 1970s into one group via two other groups - none of these groups currently exist. Admits a fleeting sexual encounter through one of the latter two groups. Mitting states:[2]
The nature of the deployment was such as to create a real risk to the safety of HN302. To an extent whcih cannot be precisely quantified, that risk remains. Because it is contingent, it does not engage Articles 2 or 3 of the Convention, but if it were to mature the harm to HN302 would be serious, possibly even lethal.
The right of [the person in the sexual encounter] to know the identify of HN302 is outweighed by the risk of safety of HN302.

11 January 2018, directions issued for any application for restriction orders to be submitted by 30 & 31 January 2018 for MPS and Designated Lawyers Team respectively.[3]

HN303 unknown Apr 2018: Minded-to grant application to restrict real name; cover name to be published.[9] SDS UCO. Deployed into Workers Revolutionary Party and reported on another in 1970s. Resigned from MPS at end of deployment to pursue another career. No threat from WRP, but former members / associates / sympathisers with the second group may do so.[9]
HN304 unknown 15 Jan 2018: 'Minded-to' grant restriction order over real name; no application in relation to cover name which will be published in due course.[10] SDS UCO. Infiltrated 'a number of non-violent groups' 1976 to 1979. No known allegation of misconduct.[11]

Deployment 'appears to have been unremarkable' but Mitting minded to publish cover name in order to allow members of the public to come forward. 'Publication of his real name would not service that end and is not necessary to permit the Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference.' And interference with article 8 rights on respect for private and family life would not be justified.[11]

HN306 unknown No application for restriction order made.[12] 20 February 2018, directions issued for any application for restriction orders to be submitted by 26 & 28 February 2018 for MPS and Designated Lawyers Team respectively.[13]
HN307 unknown No application for restriction order made.[12] 20 February 2018, directions issued for any application for restriction orders to be submitted by 26 & 28 February 2018 for MPS and Designated Lawyers Team respectively.[13]
HN308 unknown April 2018: no application made.[9]
HN311 unknown April 2018: no application made.[9]
N315 unknown Witness Protection Unit officer assigned by John Grieve to Lawrence family following wrongful publication of witness details in a Macpherson Report appendix; said they were 'never approached by any member of the MPS or asked for personal information or rumour surrounding the Stephen Lawrence family' (Herne II, 21.2.4-5).[14]
N318 unknown Real name to be published.[7] SDS managerial / back office. Deceased. No restriction order applications made.[7]
HN321 Bill Lewis Ruling (Dec 2017): real name cannot be published.[15] SDS UCO. Now in 70s. Deployed against the International Marxist Group and the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign, for one year Sept 1968-Sept 1969; no known allegation of misconduct against him. N321 is not a core participant.

For details of restriction order applications see under his profile.

HN322 unknown Ruling (20 Feb 2018): real name to be restricted.[16] SDS UCO. Now in 70s; had 30-year police career, retiring in mid-1990s. With Special Operations Squad for two months in 1968.[5]

For details on his restriction order application see under his profile.

HN323 unknown Real name to be used in due course.[1][17] SDS UCO. Now deceased and no records of cover name have been found. No restriction order application made.[7][17]
HN325 unknown Real name to be published in due course.[1]. No application made.[17] SDS back office / manager
HN326 Douglas Edwards (alias) Cover name name released[1]. Ruling restricting real name (Dec 2017).[15] SDS UCO. Currently in 70s and retired; deployed against 3 groups, two of which no longer exist, for 2 1/2 years between 1968-1971.

According to Mitting (Aug 2017): [17]

He has been careful to preserve his anonymity and is worried about disclosure of his real name. He is concerned that it may be discovered by organisations such as undercoverresearch.net and fears media intrusion. He suffers from conditions which may be exacerbated by worry. His cover name will be published.

No application over his cover name was made[17] and it was formally released in August 2017.[1]

The MPS applied in August 2017 for an restriction order over his real name with open versions published bar an additional threat assessment:[18] open application, personal statement, risk assessment (Kevin Shanahan).

Their application was heard at hearing of 21 November 2017,[19] and Mitting ruled in its favour on 5 December 2017, saying:[15]

he has been careful to preserve his anonymity and is worried about the consequences of disclosure of his real name, in particular media intrusion. He suffers from conditions which may be exacerbated by worry... I am satisfied that publication of HN326's real name would interfere with his right to respect for his private life and that the interference is not necessary to permit the terms of reference of the Inquiry to be fulfilled.

The Restriction Order was made on 8 December 2017. See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.


In his personal statement, he wrote:[20]

Discretion and secrecy was the order of the day - stum und krum. Say nothing about anything. this was communicated to me right from the very start. Even other members of my unit were not aware of my undercover name and which groups I infiltrated. It was very much "keep quiet about the whole thing". To be honest, I can't recall a conversation about secrecy at the end of my deployment. It was just the nature of the job that you didn't talk about it.
... At the time of my deployment, I was living with my parents. I told them I was on the Drugs squad...

According to his risk assessment:[21]

He was recruited by Special Branch management into the Special Operations Squad, whose function was to monitor protest groups who were a major concern of the Government. He had no formal induction or form of training (3.3).
3.4 At the time of his recruitment was informed by his senior management (Detective Chief Inspector & Detective Inspector) that the Unit he was seconded to was highly secret and was to be deployed as a result of ongoing large-scale public disorder being a major concern of the Government at that time (late 1968)."
Not offered or provided with support during his deployment; it was ad hoc and uncoordinated (4.19).
After deployment, he resumed duties in Special Branch (4.16)

See profile for more detailed analysis of his time undercover.

He did not use the identity of a dead child.

HN327 unknown Real names to be used in due course.[1] SDS UCO. Deceased. No record of cover name and no application made in respect of the real name.[17][1]
HN328 unknown Real name to be published in due course.[1] SDS back office / manager. No restriction order application made.[17]
HN329 John Graham (alias) Cover name released.[1] Ruling: real name cannot be published.[15] SDS UCO. Now in 70s. Deployed against two groups that no longer exist for one year in 1968-1969. As with HN321, only less concerned about media intrusion.[17]

No application over his cover name was made[17] and it was formally released in August 2017.[1]

Though the MPS aaplied at the same time for an order to restrict his real name, and provided open personal / impact statement from him alongside a open risk assessment (David Reid).[18] See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

Their application was heard at hearing of 21 November 2017,[19] and Mitting ruled in its favour on 5 December 2017, saying:[15]

He does not wish his real name to be published, to avoid interference in his private life and damage to his reputation, by association with other undercover officers against who allegations of misconduct have been made... I acknowledge that the interference in the right to respect for private life described above is not great. I am satisfied that is not necessary to permit the terms of reference of the Inquiry to be fulfilled. Accordingly, despite the fact it would not be great, it would not be proportionate or fair to disclose his real name; and the public interest does not require it.

The Restriction Order was published on 8 December 2017.

For details and analysis of his time undercover see his profile. He has subsequently made appearances on television under his real identity.[22]

HN330 Don de Freitas Ruling (Dec 2017): real name to be restricted, cover name can be disclosed.[15] SDS UCO. Now in 80s; deployed against Vietnam Solidarty Campaign, for several weeks in 1968. "He would like to be left in peace". Does not remember the cover names he used, similar considerations apply as HN321.[17] He targeted the Havering, Essex branch of the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign, attending some of their meetings, both public and private. He created a false name and occupation. He ceased his undercover deployment with the Special Operations Squad on 27th October 1968, following the large VSC march which the unit had focused on.[23] See also HN334 who acted as his girlfriend when he was deployed against the VSC.

Cover name and target group released 6 March 2018.[24]

In an email to the risk assessors he stated:[25]

I am puzzled by your reference to my “cover name”. I did have rather a large number of them… I would, however, emphasise that between those dates I did not join any political party, group or organisation. I was present at hundreds of political meeting, joined many public demonstrations and protests throughout the [Metropolitan Police District] and knocked on hundreds of doors. In all cases and for obvious reasons my true identity remained unknown and when avoidable I gave a false name and occupation...”

Though the cover name had not been ascertained in August 2017, there was still intention by the Inquiry to restrict real name,[1] the Metropolitan Police having applied to restrict his real name only, providing supplementary submissions, a personal statement and risk assessment (David Reid) - open versions published.[18]

In October 2017, it was noted:[26] When the ‘Minded to’ dated 3 August 2017 was published, the Inquiry did not know HN330’s cover name and HN330 could not remember it. The Inquiry has since received information from another officer which permits HN330’s cover name to be published. Legal representatives of this officer and the Metropolitan Police Service have been notified and, provided that no application for a restriction order in respect of it is received, it will be [released].

The Chair indicated he was still minded to restrict publishing the real name, but would release the cover name, pending any application to restrict it.[7][17] The application on the real name was heard at the hearing of 21 November 2017,[19] with Mitting ruling in favour of restricting the real name on 5 December.[15] The Restriction Order was released on 8 December 2017.

In his personal statement, HN330 described the risk assessment process as a 'pantomime' and based on 'hearsay obtained from a former colleague'.[23]

He is not a core participant, and has expressed to risk assessors (whom he has declined to meet) "he has the ‘most monumental indifference’ to whether the Inquiry wishes him to give evidence."[27]

See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

HN331 unknown Minded-to (Nov 2017): restrict real name[5] SDS UCO. Deployed against one group (now defunct) in 1968 & 1969. Cover name is unknown. Killed in road traffic accident in the 1970s leaving a widow and son.

According to Mitting (Nov 2017):[5]

HN331’s death caused his widow to suffer an acute mental illness, for which she received in-patient treatment. She did not remarry. She is now in her 70s and suffers from the early stages of dementia. According to her son, she has been deeply affected by the possibility that HN331’s identity might be revealed in the course of the Inquiry. No useful purpose would be served by publication of HN331’s real name. Given the nature of his deployment and the elapse of time since it occurred, it is inconceivable that it would prompt evidence from others about his deployment. His widow and surviving family are entitled to be left in peace.
HN332 unknown Minded-to: restrict real name.[5] SDS managerial role in the 1970s.

Mitting stated (Nov 2017):[5]

HN332 is in his eighties and in poor health. The Inquiry has been provided with a short medical report itemising the serious medical conditions from which he suffers, including one which is life-threatening. His daughter has provided a witness statement in which she says that he suffers from a very poor memory and from confusion. It must, therefore, be unlikely that he could provide useful evidence to the Inquiry.
He served in the Special Operations Squad/Special Demonstration Squad in a managerial capacity in the 1970’s. He was the signatory of a significant memorandum dated 17 December 1971. But for his age and health, I would have refused the application for a restriction order in respect of his real name, on the basis that a senior public servant should be willing and, if not, required, to account for his actions publicly. For the reasons explained, no useful purpose would be served by adopting that course; and to do so would risk impairing the peace of mind and even health of a man in his twilight years. I am minded to make a restriction order which will be in place during his life.
HN333 unknown SDS UCO. Now in his 70s and retired. Deployed for 9 months in 1968-1969 against a left-wing group (no longer exists). No known allegation of misconduct against him and he neither committed any crimes or took the identity of a dead child as part of his cover. Described his training as 'rudimentary'. He infiltrated his target group by answering an advert for people who were following the philosophy of [redacted]. Subsequently attended meetings of this small group. He characterised the group as extremist.[28][17] [29] Their cover name is known.[1]

The MPS applied to restrict the real name only, while N333's designated laywer has applied to restrict the cover name. Other August 2017 application documents: open submissions, personal statement and risk assessment (Graham Walker).[18]

"N333 received no specific assurance or guarantee of anonymity by senior officer(s). N333 states that there was only 'implied implication' of future anonymity'.[29] He subsequently went on to have a 'long and distinguished career' in the police.[28]

Mitting indicated in his August 2017 that he was Minded-To restrict publishing both real and cover names, stating:[17]

"If his cover name were to be disclosed, it is very unlikely that it would prompt evidence from one or more members of the target group which would assist the Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference. It would also be unlikely to prompt a threat to his personal safety or to that of his family. There is, however, a small – in my judgement, very small – risk that if his cover name were to be associated with the valuable duties which he performed subsequent to his deployment, he would be of interest to those who might pose such a threat. The nature of that risk is set out more fully in the closed reasons which accompany this note."

The application on the real name was heard at the hearing of 21 November 2017,[19] with Mitting ruling in favour of restricting the real name on 5 December.[15] The Restriction Order was released on 8 December 2017.

In making his ruling, Mitting wrote:[15]

There is not and never has been any known allegation of misconduct against him. No real threat to his personal safety or that of his family would arise from surviving members or associates of his target group. Subsequent to his deployment, he performed valuable duties in another police role. There is a real, if unquantifiable, risk that if hsi cover name were to be published, it would lead to the identification of his real name. In those circumstances, a very small risk to life and limb woudl arise from those with an interest in his later activities.

These risks were set out in closed reasons. Mitting also relied on that the 'deployment was short and appears to have been unremarkable', and that other officers could give evidence on similar deployments in the early days of the SDS. Mitting also went ont to say:[15]

Further, this is a case in which the expectation of lifetime confidentiality held by HN333 is a relevant factor. he was entitled to rely upon it when he undertook the valuable duties which gave rise to the very small risk to his safety.

See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

HN333 is not a core participant in the Inquiry.

HN334 Margaret White Real name cannot be published.[5] SDS UCO. Currently in 70s. No allegation of misconduct against her. Served with Special Operations Squad 1968-72. 'In 1968 she was deployed for several months against one group - the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign, which no longer exists - as the girlfriend of HN330. Thereafter, according to her own recollection, she performed back office duties only.'[5]

Cover name released 6 March 2018.[24]

Mitting noted she wished to 'preserve her privacy and that of her family', and it was unlikely that surviving members of the groups she targeted would recall her.[5]

HN335 unknown Real name to be used in due course.[1] SDS UCO. Deceased. No record of cover name and no application made to restrict real name.[1][17]
HN336 Dick Epps Ruling (Mar 2018): Real name name cannot be published.[4] SDS UCO. Deployed 1969-1972, targeting the International Marxist Group and British Communist Party, and providing intelligence on other groups. None of them still exist. No allegation of misconduct known. Appeared on 'True Spies' programme under the pseudonym 'Dan' with the approval of senior officers.[5] A 27 Feb 2018 email named his targets as the International Marxist Group and the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign.[30] Following his SDS deployment, worked in the port section and the Industrial Intelligence Section.[31]

In his ruling not to release the real name, Mitting wrote: 'He believes that if his real name were to be published he would attract media attention which may be intrusive. His concern is not irrational. Publication of his cover name, which has occurred, will permit any member still living of the groups with whom he was involved to give evidence about him. Publication of his real name would serve no useful purpose. The infringement of his right to respect for his private and family life and that of his family would not be justified under Article 8(2) ECHR.[4]

Inquiry documents: Open restriction order application & 'open gist of additional information'.

Inquiry decisions: Minded-to: Real name cannot be published; cover name will be published.[5] On 27 Feb 2018, the Inquiry released his cover name.[30] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name[8] Application on real name to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8] Ruling (Mar 2018): Real name name cannot be published.[4]

HN337 unknown Ruling (Mar 2018): Neither real or cover names can be published.[4] SDS UCO & manager. In his 70s. Deployed against four groups in the 1970s.[32]

Inquiry documents:: Open application (MPS, 27 Sept 2017), Open risk assessment (Graham Walker, 26 Feb 2018) & Witness statement (2017)

Inquiry decisions: Minded-to: Neither real or cover names can be published.[5] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real and cover name with application to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8]

For more detail, see the profile of HN337

HN338 unknown Minded-to: real name cannot be published.[5] SDS UCO. Cover name and target groups unknown; deployed for a period in 1970 or 1971. Deceased. Mitting is minded-to (Nov 2017) restrict publication of real name to avoid distress to HN338's widow.[5]
HN339 Stewart Goodman 15 Jan 2018: 'Minded-to' grant restriction order over real name; no application in relation to cover name which will be published in due course.[10] Cover name published 8 April 2018.[33] SDS UCO, deployed against two groups which no longer exist 1970-74. 'Apart from one incident of no relevance to the Inquiry, there is no known allegation of misconduct against him'.[11] Active 1970-71, targeting the Anti-Apartheid Movement & International Socialists.[33]

Currently in early 70s and economically active.[11]

Mitting 'minded-to' of 15 Jan 2018: 'In the unlikely event that any member of the public can be prompted to give evidence about his deployment publication of his cover name would serve that purpose.' Publication of real name is not necessary to permit Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference and would give rise to interference with his article 8 rights to private and family life.[11]

Nov 2017: extension had been sought to deal with HN339 in a future tranche.[7]

HN340 unknown 15 Jan 2018: 'Minded-to' grant restriction order over real name; no application in relation to cover name which will be published in due course.[10] SDS UCO. Deployed against one group 1969-72, and reported on others. No known allegation of misconduct. Currently a widower in his 70s.[11]

Mitting's 'minded-to' of 15 Jan 2018: 'In the unlikely event that any member of the public can be prompted to give evidence about his deployment publication of his cover name would serve that purpose.' Publication of real name is not necessary to permit Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference and would give rise to interference with his article 8 rights to private and family life.[11]

HN341 unknown Ruling (Mar 2018): restrict both cover and real names.[4] SDS UCO. Deployed in the 1970s against two groups.

Inquiry documents: MPS application of 26 Oct 2017 (open version), Risk Assessement open version (Graham Walker, 15 Nov 2017), HN341 Impact Statement (open version)

Inquiry decisions: Minded-to: restrict both cover and real names.[5] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real and cover name with application to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8] Ruling to restrict both real and cover name on 27 March 2018.[4]

HN342 unknown Extension sought to deal with in a future tranche.[7]
HN343 John Clinton Ruling (Mar 2018): restrict real name.[4] SDS UCO. In 70s. Deployed into the International Socialists 1971-1974.[34] Or into a variety of left-wing groups in the early 1970s as Mitting wrote in his ruling.[4]

Said his past as an undercover was kept secret from everyone his family & social circles. Retired from the MPS over 20 years ago. The Inquiry has noted:[17]

HN343 is still economically active and has a legitimate concern, the cause of which cannot be stated in this document, that if oral evidence were to be given without steps being taken to conceal identity, HN343 would be the subject of media interest which would impair personal and economic life. If HN343 is required to give oral evidence, it is likely that protective measures will have to be taken.

Unwelcome media interest would also impair and might destroy his earning capacity.[4]

Inquiry documents: Application from MPS to restrict real name only. Open versions of documents not yet published pending final application.[18] See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.1 June 2017 Open restriction order application for real name by MPS (open version released 5 March 2018)

Inquiry decisions: UCPI needs more details before making decision on restricting details.[1] Minded-To: "The real name cannot be published.[17] Cover name to be published.[7] - done on 8 February 2018.[34] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name with application to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8] Ruling (Mar 2018): restrict real name.[4]

HN344 unknown April 2018 Minded to: cover name can be published; decision on real name deferred.[9] SDS UCO 1971.

Nov 2017: UCPI needs more details before making decision on restricting details.[7] March 2018: Minded to refuse restriction order over real name.[2]

Recalls cover name but refused to disclose it to risk assessors. Nothing reliable known of his deployment. Doesnt consider himself at risk from the groups he targeted or their members. Resigned from MPS in 1980s, and later arrested for unauthorised possession of official documents, though not prosecuted on the advice of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Thereafter undertook private security work in Asia. In his 70s and lives abroad. Mitting said in March 2018: [2]

Given his unwillingness to disclose his cover name to the risk assessor or to the Inquiry, and the lack of information about his deployment, the only (faint) chance of discovering anything about his deployment is to publish his real name.

Mitting in April 2018 wrote:[9]

Since the publication of the fifth 'Minded to' note on 27 February 2018, HN344 has disclosed the cover name or names under which he was deployed and the group targeted. no confirmatory evidence of these statements has yet come to light... I will defer ruling on the [MPS]'s application for a restriction order in respect of his real name, to await developments. Meanwhile, the provisional restriction order in respect of it will remain in place.


HN345 Peter Fredericks Minded-to: real name to be restricted; cover name to be published.[5] Cover name published 8 April 2018.[33]

Previously thought to be deceased but since discovered to be alive.[18] UCPI granted extension until 1 September 2017 to submit anonymity application.[1][17]

SDS UCO. Deployed for six months in 1971, Not against any one specific groups - reported on several including those opposed to apartheid (Black Power movement, Operation Omega, Young Haganah[33]. Deployment ceased when his probationary period in Special Branch was terminated. "There is a difference between his recollection of the reason for termination and that recorded in his personnel file. He left the Metropolitan Police Service soon after." No known allegation of misconduct.[5]

Mitting (Nov 2017):[5]

Since leaving the Metropolitan Police Service, he has worked in a variety of jobs and is still working. Publication of his real name would risk impairing his current source of income. It would also serve no useful purpose. It would involve some interference with his right to respect for private life under Article 8 of the European Convention the right to disclose his true identity for purposes of his choosing and to withhold disclosure for other purposes. Although the interference would not be great, it would be disproportionate to any end which it would serve, principally to permit the Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference. Accordingly, it would not be justified under Article 8(2).
HN346 unknown Minded-to: Real name to be published.[7] SDS. Deceased. No cover name known and no restriction order application has been made.[7]
HN347 Alex Sloan Ruling (Mar 2018): restrict real name.[4] SDS UCO. In his 70s. Deployed into the Irish National Liberation Solidarity Front 1971-1973.[5][34]

Mitting (Nov 2017):[5]

He is said to be concerned about the physical safety of himself and his family if his real name were to be published and is concerned about the risk of media intrusion and the impact which this might have on his family. The latter concern is not irrational. In the unlikely event that any member of the group targeted who is still living may be prompted into giving evidence about his deployment, publication of his cover name, which will occur, will provide that prompt. Publication of his real name would serve no useful purpose. The infringement of his right to respect for his private and family life and that of his family would not be justified under Article 8 (2) of the European Convention. A closed note accompanies these reasons.

Inquiry documents: 1 Aug 2017 Open application over real name by MPS (open version released 5 March 2018)

Inquiry decisions: Minded-to (Nov 2017): Real name cannot be published;[5] cover name to be published[7] - which occurred on 8 February 2018.[34] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name with application to be heard on 21 March 2018.[8] Ruling (Mar 2018): restrict real name.[4]

HN348 Sandra (fragment only recalled) Ruling (20 Feb 2018): Real name to be restricted; cover name fragment published.[16] SDS UCO. In her 70s. Deployed 1972-1973 against a non-violent group, the Womens Liberation Front, as 'Sandra'. For documents relating to her, see under her profile.
HN349 unknown Minded To (Mar 2018): neither real or cover name can be published.[12] SDS UCO; currently in his 70s; served with Special Operations Squad undercover for about a year in early 1970s; took a cover name but did not use the name of a deceased child; did not create a legend. According to Mitting:[12]
He attempted to infiltrate anarchist groups by attending meetings, but failed to do so. He decided that undercover police work was not for him, and with the consent of his superior officers, left the field.

20 February 2018, directions issued for any application for restriction orders to be submitted by 26 & 28 February 2018 for MPS and Designated Lawyers Team respectively.[13] March 2018, Mitting indicated that there was a small chance his real name could be identified if his cover name was published, and that it 'is very unlikely his deployment needs to be investigated at all to permit the Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference.' Thus, given the chance he and his family would be subject of media attention, Mitting is minded to withhold both real and cover names.[12]

HN351 unknown April 2018 Minded to: cover name will be published; real name will be restricted.[9] SDS UCO. Deployed for less than one year into the International Socialists in 1970s. Withdrawn due to health problems. In 70s; diagnosed with cancer in 2016. None of the members of the target group or their associates pose a threat. Concerned that publication of his real name will impact on his condition, which Mitting accepts even though his treating consultant oncologist says it is not possible to link the two.[9]
HN353 Gary Roberts Cover name released.[35] Minded-to (25 Jan 2018): grant restriction over real name; no application to restrict their cover name made.[36] SDS UCO, deployed against two left-wing groups between 1974-1978 - International Socialists / Socialist Workers Party and the International Marxist Group. Mitting is of the opinion the deployment was unremarkable and there is no known allegation of misconduct against him.

Does not live in the United Kingdom, but is cooperating with the Inquiry. According to Mitting (Jan 2018), publication of his cover name 'will serve to prompt evidence from those whom he encountered while deployed, if they can remember him and having anything to say about his deployment'. HN353 also wishes to avoid causing apprehension and worry to his wife or subject either of them to media intrusion. Thus, the intereference in his Article 8(2) 'right to respect for private and family life of him and his wife which would be occasioned by publication of his real name would not be justified'.[37]

Had been listed in an early tranche, but in Novmber 2017, an extension sought to move HN353 to a future tranche with the full extent of restriction sought being then unknown.[7]

HN354 unknown 15 Jan 2018: 'Minded-to' grant restriction order over real name; no application in relation to cover name which will be published in due course.[10] SDS UCO. Infiltrated one group between 1976-1979. 'His deployment appears to have been unremarkable. He has voluntarily admitted two fleeting sexual encounters with different female activists during his deployment before his marriage. In 60s, married with family.[11]

Mitting 'minded-to' of 15 Jan 2018: 'In the unlikely event that any member of the public can be prompted to give evidence about his deployment publication of his cover name would serve that purpose.' Publication of real name is not necessary to permit Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference and would give rise to interference with his article 8 rights to private and family life.[11]

HN355 unknown Apr 2018: Minded-to restrict both cover and real names.[9] SDS UCO; deployed into a number of Maoist groups in late 1970s/early 1980s, the identity of which are currently unknown. Mitting: deployment unremarkable and unlikely to have given rise to personal misconduct by HN355. Cover name would be released if it was not for the following issue: that HN355 has adult children; one of whom is mentally unstable, as well as politically committed and active - if that child discovers their father's role it would destroy their relationship, which that child's ability to function as a normal adult depends. No medical evidence supports this, due to confidentiality reasons. Mitting accepts that what HN355 is telling him is true and not exaggerated, and: 'On that basis, the public interest in maximising the chance of obtaining evidence from those against whom HN355 was deployed is outweighed by the need to protect the personal integrity of [HN355's child]'.[9]
HN356/124 Bill Biggs Cover name released SDS UCO. Deployed against Socialist Workers Party 1977-1981. No known allegation of misconduct against him. Deployment apparently unremarkable other than he was present on the demonstration of 23 April 1979 where Blair Peach was killed.[11] When his cover name was released the dates given were 1977-1982.[38]

Allocated two numbers by Operation Herne.[11]

Deceased, his widow wishes a restriction order in terms of both HN356's real and cover name, but no formal application made by her to that affect. Mitting sees no reason as to why release of the cover name would lead to the real name being discovered, so decline to make such an order. But does believe publishing the real name would interfere with the widow's Article 8 rights (private life) and not be justified.[11]

Mitting 'minded-to' of 15 Jan 2018: 'Publication of his cover name would serve that purpose.' Publication of real name is not necessary to permit Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference and would give rise to interference with his article 8 rights to private and family life.[11] 'Minded-to' grant restriction order over real name; no application in relation to cover name which will be published in due course.[10]

Cover name released 17 April 2018.[38].

HN358 unknown Apr 2018: no application made.[9]
N367 unknown Further information required before Inquiry can proceed with the application.[7] SO15 / CTC from 2006, Det. Sgt; point of contact for ex-SDS officers. Was contacted by N81 in this capacity but was accused of having 'an agenda to belittle SDS' (Ellison, 253).[39]

Notes

  1. 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 Press Release: 'Minded to' note, ruling and directions in respect of anonymity applications relating to former officers of the Special Demonstration Squad, Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accefssed 3 August 2017).
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005. Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and Special Demonstration Squad - 'Minded To' Note 5, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 7 March 2018 (accessed 10 March 2018).
  3. 3.0 3.1 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad: Directions, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 11 January 2018 (accessed 11 January 2018).
  4. 4.00 4.01 4.02 4.03 4.04 4.05 4.06 4.07 4.08 4.09 4.10 4.11 4.12 4.13 Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Application for restriction order in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad Ruling 5 , Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 27 March 2018 (accessed 28 March 2018).
  5. 5.00 5.01 5.02 5.03 5.04 5.05 5.06 5.07 5.08 5.09 5.10 5.11 5.12 5.13 5.14 5.15 5.16 5.17 5.18 5.19 5.20 5.21 5.22 In the matter of section 19 (3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad ‘Minded to’ note 2, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 14 November 2017 (accessed 15 November 2017).
  6. 6.0 6.1 Email to core participants, '20180220 UCPI to all CPs - HN26 and HN301 cover names', Undercover Research Group, 20 February 2018, referencing update of the webpage <a href="https://www.ucpi.org.uk/cover-names/">UCPI.org.u/cover-names</a>.
  7. 7.00 7.01 7.02 7.03 7.04 7.05 7.06 7.07 7.08 7.09 7.10 7.11 7.12 7.13 Counsel to the Inquiry's Explanatory note to accompany the 'Minded-To' Note (2) in respect for restrictions over the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 14 November 2017 (accessed 15 November 2017).
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 8.5 8.6 Press notice - Publication of documents relatign to Special Demonstration Squad anonymity applications for hearing on 21 March 2018, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 5 March 2018 (accessed 5 March 2018).
  9. 9.00 9.01 9.02 9.03 9.04 9.05 9.06 9.07 9.08 9.09 9.10 Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad - 'Minded to' note 8, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 26 April 2018 (accessed 26 April 2018).
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 Press notice - ‘Minded-to’ anonymity: Special Demonstration Squad Officers (HN13, HN296, HN304, HN339, HN340, HN354, HN356/124, HN61, HN819, HN109, HN9, HN66), Undercover Policing Inquiry, 15 January 2018 (accessed 15 January 2018).
  11. 11.00 11.01 11.02 11.03 11.04 11.05 11.06 11.07 11.08 11.09 11.10 11.11 11.12 Sir John Mitting, Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad: 'Minded to' note 3, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 15 January 2018 (accessed 15 January 2018).
  12. 12.0 12.1 12.2 12.3 12.4 Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Application for restriction order in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad 'Minded To' Note 6 and Ruling 5, Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 22 March 2018 (accessed 28 March 2018).
  13. 13.0 13.1 13.2 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad - Directions, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 20 February 2018 (accessed 1 March 2018 via UCPI.org.uk).
  14. Mick Creedon, Operation Herne: Report 2 - Allegations of Peter Francis, Metropolitan Police Service, March 2014.
  15. 15.0 15.1 15.2 15.3 15.4 15.5 15.6 15.7 15.8 15.9 Sir John Mitting, Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad: Ruling, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 5 December 2017 (accessed 9 December 2017).
  16. 16.0 16.1 Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad - Ruling, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 20 February 2018 (accessed 4 March 2018).
  17. 17.00 17.01 17.02 17.03 17.04 17.05 17.06 17.07 17.08 17.09 17.10 17.11 17.12 17.13 17.14 17.15 17.16 John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005 Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstrations Squad ‘Minded to’ note, Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accessed 5 August 2017).
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 18.3 18.4 18.5 David Barr & Kate Wilkinson, Counsel to the Inquiry's explanatory note to accompany the 'Minded to' note in respect of applications for restrictions over the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and the Special Demonstration Squad, Undercover Policing Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accessed 5 August 2017).
  19. 19.0 19.1 19.2 19.3 Transcript of hearing of 21 November 2017, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 21 November 2017.
  20. 'HN326', Open personal statement of HN326, Metropolitan Police Service, 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  21. Kevin Shanahan, Open risk assessment for HN326, Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  22. 'HN329', Open personal statement, Metropolitan Police Service, 30 March 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  23. 23.0 23.1 HN329, Open personal statement (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, April 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  24. 24.0 24.1 Cover names released: "Don de Freitas” and “Margaret White” - Vietnam Solidarity Campaign, 1968 - Undercover Policing Inquiry, 6 March 2018). See also ucpi.org.uk/cover-names, accessed 6 March 2018.
  25. David Reid, HN330 open risk assessment, Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  26. Sir John Mitting, Supplementary 'Minded-To', Undercover Policing Inquiry, 23 October 2017 (accessed 23 October 2017 via UCPI.org.uk).
  27. David Reid, HN330 open risk assessment (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  28. 28.0 28.1 'HN333', Open personal statement (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, 25 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  29. 29.0 29.1 Graham Walker, HN333 Open risk assessment, Metropolitan Police Service, 2 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  30. 30.0 30.1 Email to core participants, '20180227_UCPI_all_CPs HN336_cover_name', Undercover Research Group, 27 February 2018, referencing update of the webpage UCPI.org.uk/cover-names.
  31. Inquiry's gist of additional information within the evidence supporting HN336's application for restriction order over real name only - provided to permit argument on facts that have not been considered by the Inquiry to date, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 2 March 2018 (accessed via ucpi.org.uk 10 March 2018).
  32. 'HN337', HN337 Witness Statement, Metropolitan Police Service, 2017 (accessed via ucpi.org.uk).
  33. 33.0 33.1 33.2 33.3 Email to core participants, '20180410 UCPI to all CPs publishing HN339 HN345', Undercover Research Group, 8 April 2018, referencing update of the webpage <a href="https://www.ucpi.org.uk/cover-names/">UCPI.org.u/cover-names</a>.
  34. 34.0 34.1 34.2 34.3 Email to core participants, '20180208 UPCI to all CPs - HN343 and HN347 cover names', Undercover Research Group, 8 February 2018, referencing update of the webpage UCPI.org.uk/cover-names.
  35. Email to core participants, '20180501_UCPI_to_all_CPs_publishing_HN3_HN19_HN20_HN60_HN218_HN353', Undercover Research Group, 1 May 2018, referencing update of the webpage <a href="https://www.ucpi.org.uk/cover-names/">UCPI.org.u/cover-names</a>.
  36. Press Notice: Decisions relating to anonymity applications: Special Demonstration Squad, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).
  37. Sir John Mitting, In the matter of section 19(3) of the Inquiries Act 2005. Applications for restriction orders in respect of the real and cover names of officers of the Special Operations Squad and Special Demonstration Squad - 'Minded To' Note 4, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).
  38. 38.0 38.1 Cover names, Undercover Policing Inquiry, updated 17 April 2018 (accessed 17 April 2018
  39. Mark Ellison, Possible corruption and the role of undercover policing in the Stephen Lawrence case, Stephen Lawrence Independent Review, Vol. 1, Gov.UK, March 2014.