§ Mr. Kilroy-Silkasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why police surgeons in London are being asked to sign the Official Secrets Act; and if he will call for reports from chief constables outside the metropolis as to their practice in this matter.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis tells me that most civilians who are employed by or carry out work for the Metropolitan Police and who have access to official information are already required to sign a declaration certifying that they are aware of the provisions of the Official Secrets Acts. Metropolitan police surgeons have not previously been required to sign a declaration but, since they also have access to official information, a similar requirement is included in the new form of contract which is currently being drawn up by the Metropolitan police.
The Acts' provisions apply whether or not a formal declaration is signed. It is for each chief officer to decide 133W whether persons engaged by them should sign a declaration and my right hon. and learned Friend sees no reason to call for reports about their practice.