NORTHERN IRELAND’S director of public prosecutions hit back yesterday at claims politics influenced decisions to charge former British soldiers over Troubles incidents.

Barra McGrory QC said those levelling the allegations “should know better” and said they not only insulted him but also all lawyers who worked for the region’s Public Prosecution Service.

Criticism of Mr McGrory has been aired at Westminster and in some national newspapers amid allegations a “witch hunt” is being pursued against ex-military personnel.

Mr McGrory pointed out there had only been three prosecutorial decisions involving former soldiers in recent times — two that resulted in prosecutions and one in no prosecution.

He said that was in the context of around 40,000 files passed to the PPS each year, adding: “In the overall context of what we do these are a tiny number of cases.”

The prosecutor said he was “mystified” at those questioning the impartiality of his office — and accused them of trying to steer the course of justice themselves

“If they are trying to influence me they are certainly being personally insulting and they are questioning my integrity.”

Former Conservative minister Sir Gerald Howarth recently used parliamentary privilege to accuse Mr McGrory of “supporting” Sinn Fein.

Prior to becoming DPP, Mr McGrory was a noted defence lawyer who counted Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams among his clients.

He also represented other high-profile figures across the community in Northern Ireland.

In a number of cases, Mr McGrory has recused himself from prosecution decisions that could be perceived as being linked to his former clients.