The SDLP last night (Sunday) called on the British government to "come clean" on speculation over the future role of MI5 in intelligence gathering in the north.
Policing Board member Alex Attwood was speaking following reports that PSNI Special Branch could cede the handling of security force agents to MI5.
It was claimed at the weekend that the recommendation was made by former civil servant Sir John Chilcott in his report into last year's high profile raid on a Special Branch office at Castlereagh police complex in east Belfast.
As well as the security breach, Sir John also covered intelligence gathering in the remit of his as yet unpublished report.
In July Secretary of State Paul Murphy said Sir John had concluded that no security force personnel were involved in the raid which occurred on St Patrick's night.
Police initially thought the burglary – in which sensitive material including information on informers and handlers was stolen – had been an "inside" job.
But the main focus of their inquiry switched to the possible involvement of the Provisional IRA and a number of republicans were questioned but later released without charge.
One man quizzed by detectives investigating the break-in was charged with an unrelated offence.
Last night SDLP Policing Board member Alex Attwood called on the British government to end speculation over who will take charge of intelligence gathering in the north.
"The SDLP has repeatedly raised the role of MI5 with the government and twice met Chilcott about his review," said Mr Attwood.
"The government should come clean on its intentions following weekend speculation.
"The SDLP has made clear proposals to the government on intelligence gathering including: the Chilcott report should be published without delay, the government must confirm that no decision has been taken about the future role of MI5, there should be no intelligence gathering for the army in the north and the PSNI should be responsible for future intelligence functions."
He added: "These are the best ways to create confidence in policing and security arrangements. Any other approach creates doubt."
Last night a spokeswoman for the Northern Ireland Office would only say: "We do not comment on security or intelligence matters."
