Monday, May 09, 2005

Murphy to Chair Intelligence and Security Committee

Paul Murphy, the former Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Wales, has been appointed by the Prime Minister to Chair of Parliament’s Intelligence and Security Committee.

The Intelligence and Security Joint Committee consists of nine Parliamentarians, drawn from both the Commons and Lords. It was previously chaired by The Rt. Hon. Ann Taylor MP. The Committee is responsible for examining and reporting on the work of the UK’s Security and Intelligence Services.

Speaking after the announcement, MP for Torfaen Paul Murphy said “I am looking forward to the new challenge that this interesting and hugely important role will provide. I am travelling up to London today to establish our necessary first steps. I especially look forward to working with my fellow Parliamentarians on the Committee over the coming term.”

NOTES
The Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) was established under the Intelligence Services Act 1994. Its role is to provide Parliamentary oversight of SIS, GCHQ and the Security Service.

The Committee comprises nine Parliamentarians drawn from across parties in both the House of Commons and House of Lords. The Prime Minister appoints the Committee in consultation with the Leader of the Opposition. Current Ministers are not allowed to be members of the Committee.

The Committee can examine the expenditure, policy and administration of the three agencies. It has access to a wide range of Agency activities and to highly classified information.

The Committee is required to report to the Prime Minister annually on its work. These reports are placed before Parliament. The Committee also provides ad hoc reports for the Prime Minister.

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