Ministerial Oversight

Senior Ministers are responsible to Parliament for the conduct and activities of the security and intelligence agencies (the Security Service, SIS and GCHQ).

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The Prime Minister is responsible for the UK intelligence machinery as a whole. He is advised by the Security and Intelligence Co-ordinator, who oversees the arrangements which ensure that the activities of the agencies are effectively co-ordinated.

The Security Service Act 1989 establishes the Home Secretary's responsibility for the Security Service. She is accountable to Parliament, and therefore to the public, for the work of the Service. She appoints the Director General of the Service in consultation with the Prime Minister.

Relationship between the Home Secretary and the Director General

The relationship between the Home Secretary and the Director General is crucial. The Home Secretary is regularly briefed by the Director General, who is directly accountable to her, on any changes to the threats to national security, major current investigations and any other significant matters. She also endorses the Service's annual priorities.

The Home Secretary has a close knowledge of the most sensitive aspects of our work because she personally authorises warrants under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA). These warrants allow us to intercept letters or telephone calls, to interfere with property or to carry out intrusive surveillance.

The Home Secretary and the Director General also discuss matters of policy affecting the Service - for example regarding resources or relevant legislation.

In carrying out this work the Home Secretary is supported by and receives independent advice and information from officials in the Home Office who maintain close working links with us.