Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1978

8 (1) After receiving a report made by an Adviser under paragraph 7(1) above, the Secretary of State shall consider the case of the person to whom it relates and, if he is satisfied—

(a) that that person has been concerned in the commission or attempted commission of any act of terrorism, or in directing, organising or training persons for the purpose of terrorism; and

(b) that the detention of that person is necessary for the protection of the public,

the Secretary of State may make a detention order for the detention of that person.

(2) If, on considering any case under sub-paragraph (1) above, the Secretary of State is not satisfied as mentioned in that sub-paragraph, he shall direct the release of the person concerned.

(3) Subject to sub-paragraphs (4) and (5) below, where—

(a) a person is detained under an interim custody order ; and

(b) a detention order is not made in respect of that person within the period of seven weeks following the date of the interim custody order,

the interim custody order shall cease to have effect.

(4) The Secretary of State may, where a person is required to be detained under an interim custody order, give a direction in writing extending the period of seven weeks mentioned in sub-paragraph (3) above (or that period as extended under this sub-paragraph) for a further period of one week if it is stated in the direction that the report of the Adviser in relation to that person's case has not been received before the sixth day immediately preceding the day on which the interim custody order would, but for the direction, cease to have effect.

(5) Not more than three directions under sub-paragraph (4) above shall be given in respect of any one interim custody order.

(6) A detention order shall be signed by the Secretary of State, and a direction under sub-paragraph (4) above shall be signed by the Secretary of State or a Minister of State or Under Secretary of State.