HC Deb 13 March 2000 vol 346 c77W
23. Mr. Mackinlay

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department if he will make a statement on parliamentary oversight of the Security Services and the Metropolitan police following the implementation of the Greater London Authority Act 1999. [112595]

Mr. Charles Clarke

Oversight of the Security Service is provided for by the Security Service Act 1989 and the Intelligence Services Act 1994.

For the Metropolitan police, the Greater London Authority Act 1999 sets up a new, independent Police Authority that will be responsible for securing an efficient and effective police force and for holding the Metropolitan police to account.

My right hon. Friend the Home Secretary will have a continuing responsibility for the national and international functions of the Metropolitan police. He will also continue to have responsibility for the promotion of an efficient and effective police service in England and Wales, of which the Metropolitan police is a significant part. He will be accountable to Parliament in exercising those duties.