British MP criticises timing of Bloody Sunday film

A British MP warned today that passions may be inflamed by the showing of the film Bloody Sundaynear the 30th anniversary of the tragedy in Derry.

I am extremely concerned that this film will serve both to inflame passions and seek to influence the climate in which the Saville Inquiry is being held MP Mr Gerald Howarth

Aldershot MP Mr Gerald Howarth also described the provision of National Lottery money towards making this "highly partisan" film as little short of a national disgrace.

A total of 14 people lost their lives on January 30th, 1972, when British paratroopers opened fire on a civil rights march which turned into riots. The film is due to be shown on tv3 next Sunday.

Mr Howarth has now written to Northern Ireland Secretary Dr John Reid, requesting his response to the decision to make the film.

Mr Howarth said: "Given that the Saville Inquiry is supposed currently to be conducting (at horrendous cost to public funds) a forensic inquiry into the events, I am extremely concerned that this film will serve both to inflame passions and seek to influence the climate in which the Saville Inquiry is being held".

He said: "I have a number of constituents who are former members of the Parachute Regiment and who were present on the day in question".

PA