on the Police to slow up a probe into an officer.

He said the same officer was himself suing the Government and the Attorney General's chambers had expressed fears that the internal inquiry could affect their own investigations.

Mr. Barritt said: "There is a suit against the Government by a Police officer. At the same time there is an internal hearing against him for misconduct.

"It's come to my attention the Attorney General's chambers wrote to the prosecutor asking him to adjourn this hearing because negotiations with the Police officer were at a ticklish stage. This is wholly improper.

"I was pleased to learn they stood up and said no.

"This is a line you should not cross. It is wrong but it was done.

"To compound matters a letter came back expressing disappointment they did not accede to that request. Lines are being blurred that ought not to be done.

"I am not saying it was the Attorney General.'' Dame Lois admitted the letter had been sent.

Mr. Barritt said: "That compounds it. That's improper.'' Dame Lois said: "What he's talking about is obviously something that is been looked at by Police.

"Exactly what's the problem in things between one Government department and another? "I was told the officer in the department before I got there was dealing with that matter.'' John Barritt