Katrice Lee
Defence

Iain Wright (Hartlepool, Labour)

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will allow the family of Katrice Lee access to the case notes to the investigation into her disappearance; and if he will make a statement.

Peter Luff (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Defence Equipment, Support and Technology), Defence; Mid Worcestershire, Conservative)

The investigation into Katrice Lee's disappearance remains open and disclosure of the case files, even to a family member, could have a prejudicial effect on the investigation or any subsequent trial. The Ministry of Defence also has a duty to protect an individual's personal data under the Data Protection Act 1998 and disclosure of case documents could represent a breach of confidence where the information was provided for the purpose of a police investigation.

The Royal Military Police are currently reviewing the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of Katrice Lee. It is standard police procedure to periodically review significant, unsolved cases, particularly as new techniques become available, and the family are being kept informed of developments through dedicated Family Liaison Officers. This is a sensitive and distressing case, particularly for the close family, and I would like to assure the hon. Member that the Royal Military Police are doing all they can to ensure that it has been investigated fully.