A LAWYER has raised concerns with court officials that MP Johnny Mercer has been given "preferential treatment" while entering a Belfast court complex during the Dennis Hutchings trial.
Mr Hutchings (80) has pleaded not guilty to the attempted murder of John Pat Cunningham in Co Tyrone in 1974.
The former member of the Life Guards regiment also denies a count of attempted grievous bodily harm with intent.
The Plymouth Moor View MP and former veterans minister has attended the Laganside Court complex this week in support of Mr Hutchings.
Mr Hutchings has also been greeted by flag waving supporters outside the court complex.
In a letter to Court Service officials solicitor Niall Murphy, of KRW Law, who represents the Cunningham family, said his clients "seek to raise objection to the preferential arrangements in place" for Mr Mercer.
Mr Murphy claims that the MP had been given "immediate access to the court complex without being required to undergo the body scanner and subsequent frisk".
The letter also claimed that Mr Mercer, a former British army officer is not required to empty his pockets or "submit and papers".
It is further suggested that he is "approached and escorted through the security gate" by staff.
Mr Murphy last night said relatives are "made to endure the ignominy of passing through the security process, often in line with supporters of the defendant".
Mr Cunningham's nephew Charlie Agnew said: "To then see the preferential treatment afforded to him on the court estate is particularly offensive."
The Court Service was contacted for comment.
