HC Deb 02 February 1966 vol 723 cc252-3W
Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, if he will make a statement on the application of the Official Secrets Act to members of the National Economic Development Council and to little National Economic Development Councils and to documents concerning these bodies.

Mr. George Brown

The Official Secrets Acts apply.

Mr. Stratton Mills

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs, if he will list those members of the National Economic Development Council and little National Economic Development Councils who have been asked to sign a declaration under the Official Secrets Act; if he will indicate those who have agreed and those who have refused; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. George Brown

The form of declaration is normally only used in this type of case where the member will have frequent occasion to see secret information. All members of the National Economic Development Council were asked to and have signed the form, but members of the Economic Development Committees have not been asked.