HC Deb 12 February 1948 vol 447 cc566-7
45. Mr. Ellis Smith

asked the Prime Minister to what extent an investigation is made into the political records of scientists, technicians and engineers before appointments are made in Government factories; what is the purpose of the investigation; and how far M.I. 5 is involved in the investigation or consideration before the appointments are made.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply which I gave to my hon. Friend the Member for Wycombe (Mr. Haire) on the 5th February.

Mr. Gallacher

Can the Prime Minister give the number of people employed under the direction of M.I. 5—is it 10,000 or 30,000?

The Prime Minister

The hon. Member must not draw on his experiences of another country.