PMQT Written Answers – 17 November 1992

Below is the text of the written answers relating to Prime Minister’s Question Time from 17th November 1992.

PRIME MINISTER:

Security Service

Mr. Flynn : To ask the Prime Minister what arrangements he intends to make for parliamentary scrutiny of the Security Service and the secret intelligence service.

The Prime Minister : As I explained to the hon. Member on 13 May 1992, Official Report, column 103, the security and intelligence services are all subject to close ministerial oversight, and the Ministers are responsible to Parliament. There is now also a Commissioner for the Security Service who produces an annual report to Parliament, and a tribunal for those who have grievances. There will be an opportunity for Parliament to debate such matters when legislation is brought forward.

Engagements

Sir Peter Tapsell : To ask the Prime Minister if he will list his official engagements for Tuesday 17 November.

The Prime Minister : This morning I had meetings with ministerial colleagues and others. In addition to my duties in the House, I shall be having further meetings later today.

Cabinet Committees

Mr. Menzies Campbell : To ask the Prime Minister whether it is customary for decisions made in Cabinet Committee to be relayed to Members of the Cabinet who have not attended that meeting.

The Prime Minister [holding answer 16 November 1992] : Not in all cases. The procedures for Cabinet committees are set out in paragraph 4 of the “Questions of Procedure for Ministers,” which is available in the Library.