Security Commission

The Security Commission is an executive group appointed by the Prime Minister to investigate suspected breaches of security by public servants. It was established in 1964 with the following terms of reference as announced on 23 January 1964 by the Prime Minister (Sir Alec Douglas-Home):

If so requested by the Prime Minister to investigate and report upon the circumstances in which a breach of security is known to have occurred in the public service, and upon any related failure of departmental security arrangements or neglect of duty; and, in the light of any such investigation, to advise whether any change in security arrangements is necessary or desirable. (Hansard cols 1271-3).

A statement by the Prime Minister (Mr Wilson) on 10 May 1965 widened the terms of reference to cover circumstances where there might be reason to think that a breach of security had occurred.

Current members

The members of the Security Commission are currently:

• The Rt Hon Lord Justice Mantell, (Alternative Chairman)
• Sir Clive Whitmore GCB CVO
• Sir John Goulden GCMG
• Lieutenant General Sir John Foley KCB OBE MC