House of Commons · General Debate
13 July 2020 · 5 other contributors
Opened by Jacob Rees-Mogg Con North East Somerset
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
Jacob Rees-Mogg raised concerns about intelligence and security committee of parliament in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
Key points
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.
Opened the debate
Under section 1 of the Justice and Security Act 2013, the Prime Minister has nominated members for the Intelligence and Security Committee following consultations with the leader of Her Majesty’s Opposition. The House is now being asked to appoint these members in accordance with the Act.
The longest time has been taken to set up this Committee since 1994, and there should be an acknowledgment of the delay. The role of Parliament in robust oversight is necessary for democracy and national security. Eminent Members have warned about the importance of not leaving oversight in a vacuum. Four important inquiries were ongoing, including the Russia report which has been delayed. Support for the new Opposition team on the Committee.
The motion was only brought forward after pressure from MPs, and it is concerning that the Government did not act sooner. The publication of the report into Russian interference in our democracy is urgent to answer serious questions about foreign interference in elections. Democracy must be fought for, especially when there are concerns about election tampering and transparency.
Welcomes the motion and pays tribute to former members of the Committee, including Dominic Grieve, Richard Benyon, Keith Simpson, the Marquess of Lothian, and Lord Robin Janvrin. Emphasises the importance of independent oversight of security services for building public trust. Urges the publication of all completed reports by the Committee as soon as possible.
Endorses the work of Dominic Grieve and other former members, acknowledging their dedication despite political differences. Supports the urgency to publish the annual report, the report on the procurement of National Cyber Security Centre at Nova South, and especially the Russia report before Parliament goes into recess.
Thanked the right hon. Member for North Durham for his speech and acknowledged former members of the Committee, including Dominic Grieve, Keith Simpson, Richard Benyon, Caroline Flint, David Hanson, Michael Ancram, and Lord Janvrin. Emphasised the importance of democratic oversight of security services, noting that it was previously entirely secret. Praised the hon. Member for Bath for tabling an early-day motion on this issue. Explained that forming a new Committee took time due to changes in personnel, but believed they now have an exceptionally distinguished group. Stressed the Government's commitment to protecting democratic and electoral processes from foreign interference.