HC Deb 30 October 1997 vol 299 c846W
Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department which friends and associates of Mr. Shayler were questioned by the police; when the questioning occurred; and what were the reasons for it. [13424]

Mr. Straw

This investigation is a matter for the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. I understand from the commissioner that inquiries are proceeding and the Metropolitan police will report in the normal way to the Crown Prosecution Service.

Mr. Winnick

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if it is his policy that Mr. Shayler will be arrested if he returns to the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement. [13527]

Mr. Straw

This is not a matter for me but for the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis. I understand from the commissioner that the Metropolitan police would like to interview Mr. Shayler in connection with a possible offence under section 1 of the Official Secrets Act 1989.