Written question asked by Robert Key (Conservative) on Thursday, 17 February 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 March 2000. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 March 2000 on behalf of the Ministry of Defence.

Ministry of Defence

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, if he will place a copy of the 1961 General Security Agreement in the Library. - Includes fact that will write to hon Member and a copy of letter will be placed in Library. (Dep 01/380). (Holding answer 22 February 2000).

Answer: Mr. Key: To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will place a copy of the 1961 General Security Agreement in the Library. [111485] Mr. Spellar: [holding answer 22 February 2000]: The 1961 General Security Agreement between the UK Government and the US Government is currently a classified document. Before the document can be released into the public domain both signatories must agree to its declassification. We are therefore discussing the possibility of declassification with the US authorities. I will write to the hon. Member and a copy of my letter will be placed in the Library of the House when these discussions are complete.

Secondary information