The powers of inquiry open to Northern Ireland's Police Ombudsman are to be strengthened, it was claimed tonight.
SDLP leader Mr Mark Durkan said Nuala O'Loan's ability to investigate police policies and practices is to increase after a meeting with Secretary of State Paul Murphy.
He said: "The SDLP has been engaged intensively with the Northern Ireland Office on the new policing legislation.
"We are determined that it should faithfully reflect all of the commitments given to the SDLP at Weston Park last year."
Mr Durkan said real progress was now being made on one of his party's main concerns, the powers of the ombudsman.
"The original proposals published by the British Government a fortnight ago did not guarantee her all the information that she requires," he said.
"Following discussions with the NIO, she will now have access to all the information that she requires. This is absolutely critical to ensuring properly accountable policing."
PA