Birmingham pub bombings: Police to review interview footage
Police are investigating comments by a former IRA 'explosives' expert who claimed 'collective responsibility' for the Birmingham pub bombings.
West Midlands Chief Constable Dave Thompson today revealed detectives had reviewed an interview by Michael Hayes given to they BBC where he admitted to defusing a third bomb.
The interview caused outrage amongst the victims' families and the public as Mr Hayes appeared to speak with impunity.
Speaking to members of the West Midlands Strategic Policing and Crime Board, Mr Thompson revealed the force had requested the full footage from the BBC.
He said: "Members of the public will be aware of Michael Hayes and some comments as part of a BBC interview, and these comments have drawn considerable comment and attention in the city, Members of Parliament, the victims' families, and generally.
"The pub bombing investigation, while not active, has never been closed.
"Our approach is when new facts come to light we will scrutinise them carefully.
"In terms of this specifically we have carefully reviewed the interview.
"We have approached the BBC to request full footage as part of our inquiries.
"The individual is outside the United Kingdom and any decision of what additional action can be taken is made with the CPS. I'm not intending to give a running commentary.
"At the stage we have taken a view we will ensure families of those who lost people and the coroner are informed."
Twenty-one people were killed in the blasts in 1974. Inquests are set to be resumed later this year.
