§ 7. Mr. Norman Baker (Lewes)What mechanism is in place to ensure that information gleaned from interception of communications by US forces at RAF Menwith Hill is not used in a way that is prejudicial to the interests of the UK. [36263]
§ The Minister for the Armed Forces (Dr. John Reid)United Kingdom personnel are integrated into every level at RAF Menwith Hill, and we can therefore be confident that no activity prejudicial to United Kingdom interests is carried out there.
§ Mr. BakerCan the Minister confirm the veracity or otherwise of the statement in the report prepared for the European Parliament, "Assessing the Technologies of Political Control", which suggests that all telephone, fax and e-mail communications within Europe are routinely monitored by United States forces based at RAF Menwith Hill? Given that such activity is expanding at a rate of knots and given that the cold war is over, it is reasonable to assume that it is done for non-military purposes. Can he confirm that the UK Government have access to all intercepts at RAF Menwith Hill? If he cannot, how could he give the assurance that he just gave?
§ Dr. ReidThe hon. Gentleman would not expect me to comment on a report that I have never seen or, indeed, heard of—far less vouch for its veracity. RAF Menwith Hill is a communications facility, and there is total integration of United States and United Kingdom staff there. There is not only parliamentary accountability but accountability through the Intelligence and Security Committee, and not least from the hon. Gentleman. Of the 10 thousands of questions that he has tabled since entering Parliament—at up to £600 a time—more than 20 on this matter have had my personal attention.