HC Deb 29 April 1974 vol 872 cc370-1W
Mr. Molloy

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what relationship and action is authorised between the Special Branch and the police without requiring ministerial consent; and if he will make a statement.

Dr. Summerskill

Special Branch officers are members of police forces and are therefore, like other police officers, subject to the direction of chief officers of police.