§ Llew SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will initiate a review of the operation of the secret intelligence services. [152314]
§ Mr. StrawI am satisfied that the work carried out by the Intelligence Services continues to be an essential tool in protecting the nation's security, for instance, in countering the risks posed by terrorists, international criminals and drug dealers, and the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction.
Their work is underpinned by legislation, and subject to oversight by the Intelligence and Security Committee and by the Commissioners appointed under the 842W Intelligence Services Act and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act. These mechanisms serve to keep their work under continuing review.