§ Mr. Rees-Daviesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) on how many occasions warrants have been issued for the tapping of solicitors' telephones, either professional or private lines who are engaged professionally in criminal causes where considerations of national security are not involved; if he will give an assurance that no such warrants will be issued; and if he will state the policy governing the tapping of lines where it involves breaching confidential communications between solicitor and the interests of the client;
(2) on how many occasions warrants have been issued for the tapping of barristers' telephones, either their chambers or private lines, who are engaged professionally in criminal causes where considerations of national security are not involved; if he will give an assurance that no such warrant will be issued; and if he will state the policy governing the tapping of lines where it involves breaching confidential communications between barristers and those whom they advise.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister made it clear that his statement on 17th November was a unique exception to the normal practice352W whereby my right hon. Friend and I are unable to answer Questions on these matters. I have nothing to add to that statement.
§ Mr. Rees-Daviesasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what instructions are given and precautions taken to ensure that New Scotland Yard or any particular branch thereof do not engage in unauthorised tapping of telephone lines allegedly in pursuit of the prevention of crime.
§ Mr. Roy JenkinsIt would not be appropriate to publish details, but I am satisfied that there are adequate safeguards against such unauthorised tapping.