HC Deb 20 February 1912 vol 34 c449
Mr. KING

asked whether the annual amounts voted under the heading of "Secret Service" are for the most part or entirely devoted to the acquisition of confidential information deemed to be essential to the defence of these islands and our Colonial possessions; or, if devoted to other purposes, whether the proportion or amount so expended can be stated?

The PRIME MINISTER

In making these Grants under the head of "Secret Service," Parliament expressly waives its right to the explanations to which it is otherwise entitled in respect of all Grants of public money, and to give such explanations would be to defeat the object of the Grants.