HC Deb 27 February 1968 vol 759 cc300-1W
84. Mr. Gardner

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what instructions are issued to civil servants regarding the disclosure of confidential information concerning individuals to Government Departments and others who may seek such information.

Mr. Roy Jenkins

Under the Official Secrets Act it is an offence for an officer to disclose to an unauthorised person any information he has acquired through his official duties unless he has received official permission. Departments are instructed to bring this to the attention of all civil servants on entry, and to remind them annually of their obligations.