HC Deb 08 June 1961 vol 641 c1391
47. Dame Irene Ward

asked the Prime Minister whether the Radcliffe Committee will examine the working of the Official Secrets Act.

Mr. Selwyn Lloyd

I have been asked to reply.

In so far as the security procedure and practices currently followed in the public service are affected by the operation of the Official Secrets Acts, it will be open to the Committee to examine the working of those Acts and, if it considers that any changes are required, to recommend accordingly.

Dame Irene Ward

While thanking my right hon. and learned Friend for that Answer, which is more satisfactory than I had imagined it would be, may I ask if he is aware that the judge who pronounced on the Blake case gave a great deal away under the Official Secrets Act? Could the statement of that judge be examined by the Radcliffe Committee?

Mr. Speaker

That Question is out of order.