The SDLP has claimed steady progress in its efforts to have Patten fully reflected in the Police (Northern Ireland) Bill, while warning "key issues" have yet to be resolved. Significant changes to the Bill agreed by the British government mean:
The role of the police ombudsman will be enshrined in law.
The ombudsman will have the power to initiate inquiries and investigate complaints, but subject to a two-year time limit.
the ombudsman will have to be consulted about the Secretary of State's policing objectives and the new code of ethics.
Meetings of the Policing Board will be in public, except in sensitive or unusual circumstances.
50/50 recruitment of Catholics and Protestants may continue beyond the 10th year.
"Aggregation" will make up for any shortfall in Catholic recruitment in any year, and progress reviewed every three years.
The oath for new recruits will require respect for the lawful "traditions and beliefs" of individuals.
Serving officers will not be required to re-attest but will be bound by the code of ethics and to carry out their functions consistently with the new oath.
The code will be determined by the Policing Board and not the Chief Constable and will be incorporated in police disciplinary procedures.
Mr Mandelson has promised to strike "a different balance" between the powers of the Secretary of State and the Policing Board, and has told British Labour MP Mr Kevin McNamara "the B board will have the powers recommended by Patten in relation to requiring reports and initiating inquiries". He is to publish a new implementation plan when the Bill reaches the statute book.