House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Security Service
03 July 2025 · Home Office
Proposed by Yvette Cooper Lab Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- MI5 provided incorrect evidence to the High Court regarding Agent X's status.
- The government has accepted the need for a robust and independent investigation.
- An internal review by the Attorney General is underway to examine MI5's evidence preparation processes.
Issue summary
MI5 provided incorrect evidence to the High Court, which misled various oversight bodies about Agent X's status as a Covert Human Intelligence Source.
Action requested
The government has accepted the need for a robust and independent investigation. An internal review by the Attorney General on how MI5 prepares and presents evidence is underway, alongside an official review of wider issues raised by this case. Director General Sir Ken McCallum has initiated a learning and response programme within MI5 to improve its processes.
Key facts
- MI5 provided incorrect evidence about Agent X's status as a Covert Human Intelligence Source.
- The High Court criticised MI5 for providing evidence in a piecemeal manner.
- A robust and independent investigation will take place.
- An internal review by the Attorney General is being conducted to improve how evidence from MI5 is prepared and presented.
- Director General Sir Ken McCallum has initiated a wide-ranging learning and response programme within MI5.