N officers 3

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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 2)

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 5 March 2018

N series officers part 3 (>300)

Cypher Name Status Notes
HN300 unknown 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.[2]
HN301 Bob Stubbs Minded-to (Nov 2017): Real name name cannot be published;[3] cover name to be published.[4] Cover name was released on 20 Feb 2018.[5] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict cover name[6] 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.[3][5]

Mitting noted (Nov 2017):[3]

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.
HN302 unknown 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.[2]
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.[7] SDS UCO. Infiltrated 'a number of non-violent groups' 1976 to 1979. No known allegation of misconduct.[8]

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.[8]

HN306 unknown 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.[9]
HN307 unknown 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.[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)..[10]
N318 unknown Real name to be published.[4] SDS managerial / back office. Deceased. No restriction order applications made.[4]
HN321 Bill Lewis Ruling (Dec 2017): real name cannot be published.[11] Now in 70s. Deployed against two groups which no longer exist, for one year Sept 1968-Sept 1969; no known allegation of misconduct against him.

A press release of 5 October 2017 stated:[12]

"HN321 was deployed as a member of the Special Operations Squad in 1968 – 1969. He had the cover name “William Paul Lewis”, although he has said that he was known simply as “Bill”. He may have been encountered by individuals involved with the International Marxist Group or the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign in London at that time."

Mitting's 'Minded-To' of August 2017 noted:[13]

"He undertook the role of an undercover officer on the understanding that his identity would be kept secret. He is concerned about possible media interest if his real identity were to be revealed. He is, in particular, concerned about the impact on his wife, also in her 70s. His concerns are not irrational. In the unlikely event that disclosure of his cover name, which can be made, prompts evidence from one or more members of the target groups it will not be enhanced by disclosure of his real name. It is likely that disclosure of his real name would prompt intense and unwelcome media interest in him and so would give rise to serious interference with his and his family’s right to respect for their private life under Article 8 of the European Convention which would not be justifiable under Article 8(2). Closed reasons accompany this note."

An application was made by the MPS to restrict real and cover names, including an supplementary submission, along with a personal statement and a risk assessment (David Reid) - open versions published in August 2017.[14]

Mitting's Minded-To of August 2017 said he was considering release of the cover name but grant an order restricting the real name.[13] Following this, the Metropolitan Police withdrew their application to restrict HN321's cover name, leading it to being published on 5 October 2017, though the application to restrict his real name remained in place.[12][3]

In their personal witness statement, HN321 says:[15]

The Special Branch was a covert entity and while the public knew it existed, its activities were secret. My understanding when I joined the Special Branch was that I was not to discuss its activities outside of the service and my expectation of the Branch was that my identity would also be kept secret. I recall that at the Induction presentation into the Branch that we were warned that we would have access to secret information that we were not to reveal to anyone outside of the Police or to even acknowledge that we were members of the Special Branch. This seemed entirely reasonable to me and for nearly fifty years I have kept faith with that understanding.

According to his risk assessment:[16]

  • 3.3 N321 received no training and no psychometric testing. N321 was told that N321 needed to gather intelligence, but the senior officers left it to the squad members to work out their own approach. There was no particular methodology advocated by officers and N321 simply used whatever techniques looked the most promising. To a certain extent the approach had to be tailored to the group that were to be penetrated.
  • They did not use the identity of a dead child.

The application to restrict his real name was heard at the hearing of 21 November. There it was noted that HN321 currently lives outside of the UK and had said they would not return if their real identity was revealed, but is prepared to cooperate with the Inquiry if it wasn't. It was said that he believed he had done nothing wrong during his time undercover, and Mitting took the view the value of HN321's evidence would only go towards the founding of the SDS.[17] Mitting ruled on 5 December 2017 that 'if the Inquiry is recieve anything of value from HN321, it must not publish his real name', and granted the restriction order over the officer's real name.[11] The Restriction Order was published on 8 December 2017.

See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

N321 is not a core participant.

HN322 unknown Ruling (20 Feb 2018): real name to be restricted.[18] SDS UCO. Now in 70s; had 30-year police career, retiring in mid-1990s. With Special Operations Squad for two months in 1968; in his recollection, he was intended to be deployed against a group (which no longer exists) but was re-allocated to other duties before being deployed. Had no cover name.[3]

Mitting noted (Nov 2017):[3]

In the unlikely event that he is required to provide evidence to the Inquiry, publication of his real name will serve no useful purpose. The interference which it would occasion with his right to respect for his private life would not be justified.

Documents released 4 January 2018: Open application for restriction order, Open risk assessment, Open impact statement.

His Risk Assessment shows that HN322 did not want to be interviewed by the risk assessors but has submitted a so-called pro-forma, a written statement. '

[His deployment] appears to have taken place at some point between 1967 and 1970, although this period also includes VIP protection duties. There is some evidence that his deployment may have lasted only two months, from September to December 1968.
HN322 is shown as having been deployed into the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign (South East London) in documentation, but denies he actually infiltrated any group.

In his Impact Statement he adds that he asked to been taken off his undercover job as he did not want to be away from home so much nor did he consider himself brave enough to do the work of long term infiltration.

His Impact Statement also reveals that the Metropolitan Police applied for a restriction order of his real name before consulting HN322 about it.

Material relating to HN322 for the hearing of 5 February 2018 was submitted by the Metropolitan Police, The Guardian, Peter Francis and the NPSCPs.

Minded-to (Nov 2017): Real name name cannot be published.[3] The Restriction order application was heard in open hearing on 5 February 2018.[19] and the ruling handed down on 20 February 2018 in favour of restricting his real name. It also stated:[18]

HN322 is in his 70s. He had a varied 30 year police career, retiring in the mid-1990s. Documents... show that he attended a small number of public meetings held to prepare for the anti-Vietnam war demonstration in London on 27 October 1968 in the company of another officer in the Special Demonstration Squad and reported on them to the founding head of the Squad, Conrad Dixon. His recollection that he was not deployed may, therefore be wrong; but the nature of his reporting suggests that it was a traditional Special Branch deployment, not an infiltration. Nothing of which I am aware contradicts his recollection that he left the squad soon after. He may be asked to provide a statement to the Inquiry, but is unlikely to be called to give evidence.
HN323 unknown Real name to be used in due course.[1][13] SDS UCO. Now deceased and no records of cover name have been found. No restriction order application made.[4][13]
HN325 unknown Real name to be published in due course.[1]. No application made.[13] SDS back office / manager
HN326 Douglas Edwards (alias) Cover name name released[1]. Ruling restricting real name (Dec 2017).[11] 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): [13]

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[13] 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:[14] open application, personal statement, risk assessment (Kevin Shanahan).

Their application was heard at hearing of 21 November 2017,[17] and Mitting ruled in its favour on 5 December 2017, saying:[11]

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.[13][1]
HN328 unknown Real name to be published in due course.[1] SDS back office / manager. No restriction order application made.[13]
HN329 John Graham (alias) Cover name released.[1] Ruling: real name cannot be published.[11] 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.[13]

No application over his cover name was made[13] 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).[14] See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

Their application was heard at hearing of 21 November 2017,[17] and Mitting ruled in its favour on 5 December 2017, saying:[11]

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 unknown Ruling (Dec 2017): real name to be restricted, cover name can be disclosed.[11] SDS UCO. Now in 80s; deployed against one group, no longer active, 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.[13] 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.

In an email to the risk assessors he stated:[24]

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.[14]

In October 2017, it was noted:[25] 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.[4][13] The application on the real name was heard at the hearing of 21 November 2017,[17] with Mitting ruling in favour of restricting the real name on 5 December.[11] 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."[26]

See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

HN331 unknown Minded-to (Nov 2017): restrict real name[3] 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):[3]

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.[3] SDS managerial role in the 1970s.

Mitting stated (Nov 2017):[3]

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.[27][13] [28] 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).[14]

"N333 received no specific assurance or guarantee of anonymity by senior officer(s). N333 states that there was only 'implied implication' of future anonymity'.[28] He subsequently went on to have a 'long and distinguished career' in the police.[27]

Mitting indicated in his August 2017 that he was Minded-To restrict publishing both real and cover names, stating:[13]

"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,[17] with Mitting ruling in favour of restricting the real name on 5 December.[11] The Restriction Order was released on 8 December 2017.

In making his ruling, Mitting wrote:[11]

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:[11]

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 unknown Real name cannot be published.[3] 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.'[3]

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.[3]

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][13]
HN336 Dick Epps Minded-to: Real name cannot be published; cover name will be published.[3] On 27 Feb 2018, the Inquiry released his cover name.[29] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name[6] SDS UCO. Deployed 1969-1972, targeting the International Marxist Group and British Communist Party, but also providing intelligence on other groups. No allegation of misconduct known. Appeared on 'True Spies' programme under the pseudonym 'Dan' with the approval of senior officers.[3] An 27 Feb 2018 email named his targets as the International Marxist Group and the Vietnam Solidarity Campaign.[29]

Mitting (Nov 2017):[3]

Publication of his cover name, which will occur, 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) of the European Convention.
HN337 unknown Minded-to: Neither real or cover names can be published.[3] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real and cover name[6] SDS UCO & manager. In his 70s. Deployed against four groups in the 1970s. Later a manager in the SDS in the 1990s where he was responsible for the recruitment and deployment of N81, though played no role in the targeting of the Lawrences.[3]

According to Mitting (Nov 2017):[3]

Associates of those with whom HN337 came into contact during the deployment pose a real but unquantifiable risk to life and safety. It is possible that if the cover name were published other individuals who pose no risk to HN337 could give evidence about HN337 which might be of interest to the Inquiry. There is no known allegation of misconduct, arising out of the deployment against HN337; and none is likely to be made.
HN337 does not live in the United Kingdom. There is, accordingly, no statutory means by which this officer can be compelled to provide evidence to the Inquiry. The evidence which can be given is likely to be of value to the Inquiry. It can only be obtained with HN337’s cooperation. It is likely that all of the evidence about this deployment and some of it about the discharge of managerial duties will be given in closed session. The evidence about HN81 can be given in open session, with measures taken to protect identity. Its cogency should not thereby be substantially diminished and it will be open to challenge by those who know HN337’s identity.
Even if it were unnecessary to make the restriction order sought for the reasons explained above, disclosure of real and/or cover names would interfere with the right to respect for private and family life of HN337 and partner, who suffers from a long-term physical health condition. It would only be necessary to re-examine the justification for this interference if, contrary to HN337’s declared intention, HN337 declines to cooperate with the Inquiry.
HN338 unknown Minded-to: real name cannot be published. [3] 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.[3]
HN339 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.[7] 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'.[8]

Currently in early 70s and economically active.[8]

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.[8]

Nov 2017: extension had been sought to deal with HN339 in a future tranche.[4]

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.[7] SDS UCO. Deployed against one group 1969-72, and reported on others. No known allegation of misconduct. Currently a widower in his 70s.[8]

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.[8]

HN341 unknown Minded-to: restrict both cover and real names.[3] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real and cover name[6] SDS UCO. Deployed in the 1970s against two groups.

Mitting (Nov 2017):

he deployment was potentially dangerous. If the true identity were now to be disclosed there would be a real, but unquantifiable, risk to HN341’s life and safety. There is a significant risk that publication of the cover name would permit individuals who might wish HN341 harm to discover the true identity. I am not prepared to run that risk. Nor is it necessary to do so to permit the Inquiry to fulfil its terms of reference. There is no known allegation of misconduct against HN341 and, given the nature of the deployment, it is unlikely that members of the groups against which HN341 was deployed would wish to provide evidence to the Inquiry.
Further, worry about the possibility that HN341’s identity might be disclosed has caused great concern to HN341’s partner who is gravely ill. Even if the only right of HN341 and HN341’s partner were their right to respect for private and family life under Article 8 of the European Convention interference with that right would be neither justified nor proportionate under Article 8(2).
Careful thought will need to be given to the manner in which the evidence of HN341 will be received. These reasons are supplemented and explained in greater detail in the accompanying closed note.
HN342 unknown Extension sought to deal with in a future tranche.[4]
HN343 John Clinton UCPI needs more details before making decision on restricting details.[1] Minded-To: "The real name cannot be published.[13] Cover name to be published.[4] - this was done on 8 February 2018.[30] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name[6] SDS UCO. In 70s. Deployed into the International Socialists 1971-1974.[30] Said his past as an undercover was kept secret from everyone his family & social circles.

The inquiry has noted:[13]

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. Pending receipt of further information, no decision can yet be made about the publication of the cover name.

Application from MPS to restrict real name only. Open versions of documents not yet published pending final application.[14] See also the NPSCP submissions of 5 October 2017.

HN344 unknown UCPI needs more details before making decision on restricting details.[4]
HN345 unknown Minded-to: real name to be restricted; cover name to be published.[3]

Previously thought to be deceased but since discovered to be alive.[14] UCPI granted extension until 1 September 2017 to submit anonymity application.[1][13]

SDS UCO. Deployed for six months in 1971, though not against anyone specific groups - reported on several including those opposed to apartheid. 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.[3]

Mitting (Nov 2017):[3]

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.[4] SDS. Deceased. No cover name known and no restriction order application has been made.[4]
HN347 Alex Sloan Minded-to: Real name cannot be published;[3] cover name to be published[4] - which occurred on 8 February 2018.[30] Provisional decision (5 Mar 2018): restrict real name[6] SDS UCO. In his 70s. Deployed into the Irish National Liberation Solidarity Front 1971-1973.[3][30]

Mitting (Nov 2017):[3]

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.
HN348 unknown Ruling (20 Feb 2018): Real name to be restricted; cover name fragment published.[18] SDS UCO. In her 70s. Deployed 1972-1973 against a non-violent group, the Womens Liberation Front, as 'Sandra'.

Cover name not recalled and no official record of it exists - though she recalls one element of the name which will be published.[3].

Mitting (Nov 2017):[3]

[The cover name fragment] may prompt evidence from former members of the group. Publication of her real name could not do so. She is concerned about the impact of media attention upon her private and family life and upon that of her family. Her concern is not irrational. Because publication of her real name would serve no useful purpose, the infringement of her right to respect for private and family life and that of her family would not be justified under Article 8(2) of the European Convention.

Documents released 4 January 2018: Open application for restriction order, Open risk assessment, Open impact statement.

The cover name she used was 'Sandra', she can't recall the surname used, and no record of it was found.

In 1972 N348 was recruited into the SDS by the then management with no application or formal interview. After a period in the 'Back Office' N348 deployed into Maoist issues, the main group being the Women's Liberation Front. N348 was removed from the field in 1973 following a compromise.

In the next section of the Risk Assessment (3.3), however, it says she was posted in the SDS back office 'late 1971'. Recruitment to SDS 'likely to have been Phil Saunders (N1251) and N294'.

Main group infiltrated: Women's Liberation Front (affiliated to the Women's Liberation Movement). The group met at the private house of the 'leader' [name censored]. The main group was a national movement based on women's rights and Maoist teachings. Any direct action appeared focussed on exploitative events, such as Miss World contest and demonstrations. N348 described the faction as vocal but aspirational only and taking part in demonstrations with placards and banners. She witnessed no violence displayed by the group and this is corroborated by the open source research conducted.
Tasking: The tasking was aimed at intelligence gathering to manage and resource public order issues.
Group size: No more than 12. Meetings of the group would be held at the home address of [censored] and concentrated on Maoist teachings. N348 described the meetings as vocal and consisted at times of the study of documentary type films of the Chinese way of life.

(N.B. The disruption of the Miss World event broadcast live on television happened in November 1970, before N348 joined the group a year later.)

The Risk Assessment points out the risk of media intrusion, acknowledging that the use of female officers may heighten interest. There may also 'be a risk of reputation to the MPS in the media or public perception':

[I]t could be argued that the deployment of N348 into such a non-violent group was disproportionate and may feed a media angle.

What the comprise entailed is not exactly clear, it seems that the 'leader' of the group was aware that N348 was a police officer, but not that she was an undercover infiltrating the group. In the Risk Assessment it says: '[Name] has had the last 45 years to expose N348 but to date has not done so if she was in fact aware N348 was also a UCO'.

In her Impact Statement, N348 states: 'I would be embarrassed about her finding out about me being an undercover officer'. She is also worried about her current colleagues who don't even know she was a police officer, she's worried her reputation would be tainted.

Material relating to HN348 for hearing of 5 February 2018 was submitted by the Metropolitan Police, The Guardian, Peter Francis and the NPSCPs.

The Minded-To of 14 Nov 2017 indicated the real name would not be published.[3] The Restriction order application was heard in open hearing on 5 February 2018[19] and the ruling issued on 20 February 2018 in favour of restricting her real name, with Mitting writing:[18]

No useful purpose would be served by publishing her real name. She can give evidence about her deployment as "Sandra" and so assist the Inquiry to discover why an undercover officer was deployed against an apparently harmless group.
HN349 unknown 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.[9]
HN353 unknown Minded-to (25 Jan 2018): grant restriction over real name; no application to restrict their cover name made.[31] 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.

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 whome 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'.[32]


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.[4]

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.[7] 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.[8]

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.[8]

HN356/124 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.[7] 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.[8]

Allocated two numbers by Operation Herne.[8]

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.[8]

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.[8]

N367 unknown Further information required before Inquiry can proceed with the application.[4] 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).[33]

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 Public Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accefssed 3 August 2017).
  2. 2.0 2.1 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).
  3. 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 3.17 3.18 3.19 3.20 3.21 3.22 3.23 3.24 3.25 3.26 3.27 3.28 3.29 3.30 3.31 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).
  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 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).
  5. 5.0 5.1 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>.
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 6.5 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).
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 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).
  8. 8.00 8.01 8.02 8.03 8.04 8.05 8.06 8.07 8.08 8.09 8.10 8.11 8.12 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).
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 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).
  10. Mick Creedon, Operation Herne: Report 2 - Allegations of Peter Francis, Metropolitan Police Service, March 2014.
  11. 11.00 11.01 11.02 11.03 11.04 11.05 11.06 11.07 11.08 11.09 11.10 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).
  12. 12.0 12.1 Undercover Policing Inquiry, Press Notice: No cover name anonymity sought in respect of HN321, UCPI.org.uk, 5 October 2017 (accessed 10 October 2017).
  13. 13.00 13.01 13.02 13.03 13.04 13.05 13.06 13.07 13.08 13.09 13.10 13.11 13.12 13.13 13.14 13.15 13.16 13.17 13.18 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 Public Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accessed 5 August 2017).
  14. 14.0 14.1 14.2 14.3 14.4 14.5 14.6 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 Public Inquiry (UCPI.org.uk), 3 August 2017 (accessed 5 August 2017).
  15. 'NH321', Open personal witness statement of N321 (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, 30 March 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  16. David Reid, HN321 Open Risk Assessment, Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2015 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 Transcript of hearing of 21 November 2017, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 21 November 2017.
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 18.3 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).
  19. 19.0 19.1 Press notice: Hearing on restriction orders in respect of HN23, HN40, HN241, HN322 and HN348, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 15 January 2018 (accessed 15 January 2018).
  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. David Reid, HN330 open risk assessment, Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  25. Sir John Mitting, Supplementary 'Minded-To', Undercover Policing Inquiry, 23 October 2017 (accessed 23 October 2017 via UCPI.org.uk).
  26. David Reid, HN330 open risk assessment (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, 31 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  27. 27.0 27.1 'HN333', Open personal statement (redacted), Metropolitan Police Service, 25 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  28. 28.0 28.1 Graham Walker, HN333 Open risk assessment, Metropolitan Police Service, 2 May 2017 (accessed via UCPI.org.uk).
  29. 29.0 29.1 Email to core participants, '20180227_UCPI_all_CPs<HN336_cover_name', Undercover Research Group, 27 February 2018, referencing update of the webpage UCPI.org.u/cover-names.
  30. 30.0 30.1 30.2 30.3 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.
  31. Press Notice: Decisions relating to anonymity applications: Special Demonstration Squad, Undercover Policing Inquiry, 25 January 2018 (accessed 25 January 2018).
  32. 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).
  33. 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.