§ 82. Mr. W. Griffithsasked the Minister of Supply whether he is aware that a security officer of his Department seeking information about Mr. Robert Haslam, an employee of his Department at Risley, Lancashire, not only questioned Mr. Haslam about his personal history since birth but also asked him similar personal questions about various members of his family; that the two referees of Mr. Haslam who had sponsored his application for employment were asked by telephone for similar information including the political views of Mr. Haslam's family; and if he will give instructions that these methods should be discontinued.
§ Mr. SandysThe case referred to was investigated in accordance with the security procedure established for ensuring the reliability of staff employed on secret Government work.
I am satisfied that the information asked for was relevant to the case in question. But the use of the telephone in these circumstances was quite improper and steps have been taken to bring this to the attention of all concerned.