FOREIGN SERVICE (SECURITY)

HC Deb 10 May 1961 vol 640 cc43-4W

46. Mr. Marten

asked the Prime Minister what restrictions are placed upon the re-employment of Foreign Service officers on confidential work after they have been prisoners in Communist hands.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

Only three officials employed under the Foreign Office have been prisoners in Communist hands. Two of these are dead; the third is George Blake. There were no special restrictions on their reemployment but searching inquiries were made before any of them were reemployed.

47. Mr. Marten

asked the Prime Minister what disciplinary action he pro poses within the Foreign Service following the conviction of George Blake.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

I have nothing to add to the written reply my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister gave yesterday to the hon. Member for Greenwich (Mr. Marsh).