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To report an imminent threat call 999 or ring the Anti-Terrorist Hotline on 0800 789 321
Current national threat level: SUBSTANTIAL Read more about threat levels >>
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Sir Michael Hanley (Director General 1972-76)
Sir Michael Hanley (1918–2001) served as an officer of the Royal Artillery during the Second World War. He became the Assistant Military Attaché in Budapest in 1946. He joined the Security Service in 1948.
In 1971, he became the Deputy Director General and was promoted to Director General the following year. During his time in office, he faced a difficult relationship with the Prime Ministers of the day. Harold Wilson wrongly suspected MI5 of plotting against him (see "The Wilson Plot") and James Callaghan decided to appoint a successor from outside the Service.
Latest News
view ALL NewsMI5 commemorates VE Day 75
Like the rest of the country, MI5 pays tribute to the service and sacrifice of the entire Second World War generation
MI5 headquarters lights up blue for carers
The Thames House entrance archway lit up blue on Thursday 16 April alongside other UK landmarks to show our...
MI5 issues apology to LGBT community for historical treatment
The Director General has expressed MI5's "regret and shame" for historical treatment of LGBT community
