§ Q8. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Prime Minister what machinery he has set up to keep himself informed of matters involving security risks.
§ The Prime MinisterIt has never been the practice to reveal security procedures.
§ Q10. Dame Irene Wardasked the Prime Minister to what extent past practice is being followed whereby members of the Government offer themselves for positive vetting; and what is the practice with regard to the positive vetting of Her Majesty's Government political advisers with direct access to them.
§ The Prime MinisterThe position as regards Ministers is exactly the same as under the last Government. It is for the Prime Minister of the day to satisfy himself as to the suitability of those whose names are submitted to Her Majesty.
If, as I assume, the second part of the hon. Lady's Question refers to temporary civil servants, none of whom are political advisers, they are, of course, subject to the same rules and procedures as other Government employees.