§ 49. Mr. W. Griffithsasked the Prime Minister whether he will give directions that, in dealing with Civil Service security cases, there should be no accusations about the wife of a civil servant which are not supported by detailed charges and that, where such accusation and detailed charges are made, a reply will be sent by the responsible Minister to any representations made by, or on behalf of, the lady.
§ The Prime MinisterI would remind the hon. Member that the statement of procedure announced to the House on 30th January, 1957, makes it clear that supporting evidence has to be limited by the need to avoid the disclosure of sources of information. The Minister will, of course, communicate such information as he thinks compatible with this requirement.
§ Mr. GriffithsIs the Prime Minister aware that while the majority of us recognise the need for an official security procedure, nevertheless there is growing concern at the practice which is developing whereby a civil servant can be suspended, or an industrial worker sacked, because for example his wife is accused of being a Communist sympathiser? Husband and wife may indignantly deny this charge, but no evidence is brought against either of them and they are not given any chance at all of establishing their innocence. Is not this contrary to all British practice?
§ The Prime MinisterThe Question was framed in general terms, and I therefore replied to it, as I thought the hon. Member would wish, in general terms. If he has in mind any particular case, perhaps he will bring it to my notice or that of the Minister concerned.