HC Deb 25 November 1971 vol 826 cc419-20W
Mr. Cunningham

asked the Minister of State for Defence upon what grounds he has refused to allow the hon. Member for Islington, South-West to see and hear one of the three electronic noise torture machines whose operation was condemned by the Compton Report.

Lord Balniel

As has been explained to the hon. Member, and whilst not accepting the imputation in his Question, the machines which are used in support of the process of interrogation are in secure establishments access to which is granted only to those who need to visit them. The Committee of Privy Councillors under Lord Parker's chairmanship will have full access to all the information which they need in the course of their inquiry and they will be able to see and hear one of these machines if they wish to do so.

Mr. George Cunningham

asked the Minister of State for Defence to what uses the three electronic noise torture machines in the possession of the armed forces are currently being put.

Lord Balniel

The only use to which any of the machines is being put is training.