§ Mr. Dubsasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department in what circumstances Scotland Yard provides information about individuals to police forces in other countries.
§ Mr. HurdI understand from the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis that his policy on the passing of such information to foreign forces is for disclosure to take place in the circumstances for which Interpol arrangements provide, and subject to safeguards laid down by Interpol in respect of improper use or disclosure. These arrangements cover the disclosure of information relating to criminal offences, the investigation and prevention of crime, the prosecution and sentencing of offenders, and any information on missing persons and unidentified dead bodies. Before agreeing to any request for information, the force must be satisfied that it is required for a proper purpose and would be covered by the Interpol safeguards. There are separate arrangements for the exchange of information on terrorist plans and activities with police forces in the European Community and certain other countries.