§ Norman BakerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department under what circumstances MI5 may decide that major decisions it takes need not be communicated to him; and what mechanism exists to ensure such decisions are in the public interests. [18537]
§ Mr. Denham[holding answer 27 November 2001]: The duties and powers of the Security Service are established by law, and the Service is under the authority of the Secretary of State. The operations of the Service are under the control of its Director-General. I am satisfied with the arrangements in place to ensure that I am properly consulted by the Service on significant issues.