HC Deb 04 December 1997 vol 302 c320W
Mr. Baker

To ask the Prime Minister what is the function of, and what are the powers available to, the Joint Intelligence Committee; and if he will make a statement. [18693]

The Prime Minister

The Joint Intelligence Committee is responsible, subject to Ministerial approval, both for setting the UK's national intelligence requirements and for producing for Ministers and officials regular intelligence assessments on a range of situations and issues of current concern.

The role of the Joint Intelligence Committee, including its terms of reference, is described fully in the booklet "Central Intelligence Machinery". The booklet was published in 1996, but there have been no significant changes to the arrangements relating to the Joint Intelligence Committee since its publication. A copy of the booklet is available in the libraries of the House.