HC Deb 16 July 1963 vol 681 cc333-4
Q5. Mr. A. Lewis

asked the Prime Minister on what date some three years ago representations were made to him officially by the hon. and gallant Member for Harrow, East (Commander Courtney) and other hon. Members about the state of security services; and whether he ordered an investigation.

The Prime Minister

I see many of my hon. Friends who talk to me about many matters, but I do not regard these meetings as official occasions.

Mr. Lewis

Is the Prime Minister aware that it has been reported that the hon. Members in question are alleged to have said that they gave evidence to the Prime Minister of a failing in the Government's security services and that he took no action? Can he confirm or deny the statements which have been made?

The Prime Minister

No, Sir. My hon. Friend made a passing reference to a discussion, but if we are not to be allowed to have private discussions in this House it will become impossible to carry on our lives.

Q6. Mr. A. Lewis

asked the Prime Minister if he has studied the evidence sent to him by the hon. Member for West Ham, North, in regard to the security risks attending the activities in this country of a Czechoslovakian friend of Ivanov; and if he will cause inquiries to be made.

The Prime Minister

I have referred the Press cutting which the hon. Member sent me to the appropriate authorities.

Mr. Lewis

Can the right hon. Gentleman say whether, in addition to the Press cutting, he has made any investigations, because it has been reported that the lady in question has been in the habit of giving dubious parties at which very many prominent people have been in attendance? Has he investigated that and sent all the evidence in his possession to Lord Denning?

The Prime Minister

I think that all these matters are under investigation.