§ Lord Mason of Barnsleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Regarding East German espionage in the United Kingdom involving Vic Allen, Robin Pearson and Milita Norwood, what action has finally been taken against them; and whether research into their activities revealed allies and agents working for East Germany from within the National Executive of the Labour Party, the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, or the offices of the major political parties and the national trade unions. [HL3864]
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Home Office (Lord Bassam of Brighton)I refer the noble Lord to the Statement made by the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Home Department, Mr Mike O'Brien, in another place, on 21 December 1999,Official Report, cols. 185–188WH, in which among other things he explained the reason why it would not be appropriate to reveal details about the investigation of individual cases.
§ Lord Mason of Barnsleyasked Her Majesty's Government:
What research they have undertaken into recent revelations of activities of the East German Secret Police within the Royal Institute of International Affairs, the Labour Party National Executive Committee, Conservative Party Headquarters and the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament; and what action is being taken against those already uncovered. [HL3865]
§ Lord Bassam of BrightonAll leads to alleged espionage activity are examined and where appropriate investigated by the Security Service. It is for the prosecuting authorities to consider whether criminal proceedings should be commenced in any particular case.