Oral Answers to Questions Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Oral Answers to Questions

Paul Farrelly Excerpts
Wednesday 30th October 2013

(11 years ago)

Commons Chamber
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Lord Maude of Horsham Portrait Mr Maude
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My hon. Friend has taken a close interest in this matter and made some extremely robust and helpful comments. We take contractor security extremely seriously, and following this breach, which took place in the United States, we are obviously redoubling our efforts to ensure that it is as secure as it can be.

Paul Farrelly Portrait Paul Farrelly (Newcastle-under-Lyme) (Lab)
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When assessing the leaks from Edward Snowden and the reporting by newspapers, including The Guardian, will the Minister and the Government take clear account of the statement from President Barack Obama last week that some of the activities of the National Security Agency in the US raised legitimate questions for friends and allies?

Lord Maude of Horsham Portrait Mr Maude
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I hear what the hon. Gentleman says, but I would just like to make this point about GCHQ: it comprises very, very dedicated, hard-working Crown servants who do incredibly valuable work to protect our safety and security every day of the week, and they deserve solid support from right across the Chamber and from both Front Benches. I hope that that will be made absolutely clear.