The Northern Ireland Office refused to comment last night on reports that the British government is considering a "formal apology" for Bloody Sunday.
A report in the British Times today says that the Northern Secretary, Dr Mo Mowlam, is preparing to order an independent review of the fatal shooting of 14 men in Derry by the Parachute Regiment in 1972. The review will be based on new evidence presented to the Northern Ireland Office by the Irish Government.
A Northern Ireland Office spokesman said: "We are currently considering evidence passed to us by the Irish Government. That is being considered and the Secretary of State will make a statement in due course."
The material presented by the Government in June is reported to be based on two recent television documentaries and a new book.