Intelligence and Security Committee Report Debate

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Department: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office

Intelligence and Security Committee Report

Baroness Coussins Excerpts
Tuesday 5th November 2019

(5 years ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Portrait Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
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As my noble friend made clear, and as I have repeated today, this is a sensitive report. It is important that it goes through the full process. That is exactly what is taking place, in accordance with legislation. The Prime Minister will respond accordingly. I shall not add any other comment to those I have already made.

Baroness Coussins Portrait Baroness Coussins (CB)
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My Lords, I am sure the report may well be sensitive but, as I understand it from the exchanges in this House yesterday, all the relevant security agencies have already given their approval for publication. Why does the Prime Minister not have confidence in their judgment?

Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Portrait Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon
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First, my right honourable friend the Prime Minister and this Government have total confidence in our agencies, which do a sterling job in keeping us safe. According to law, however, it is not for those agencies to comment. The Prime Minister provides the final approval after taking all matters into consideration. That is the process being followed.