§ 4. Mr. Brittanasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he proposes to introduce legislation to reform the law on official secrets.
§ Mr. Merlyn ReesIt remains the Government's intention to bring forward some proposals as soon as possible.
§ Mr. BrittanDoes the Home Secretary not agree that the highest priority should be given to the liberalisation of the law on official secrets because it is one of the few beneficial reforms that will not cost extra money? By opening up the processes of government to the scrutiny of the public and Parliament we may even find ways of cutting public expenditure without reducing the standard of services.
§ Mr. ReesI was a member of the Franks Committee. I cannot recall that a reduction in public expenditure loomed large in our minds when we recommended liberalisation. I am keen to see it, but it is a question not only of money but of parliamentary time. It is a complicated matter, but the hon. Member can rest assured that I have a vested interest in this question through the Franks Committee.