Pre-charge detention time limits: statement by Jonathan Evans
A number of media reports have appeared in the last few days on the supposed position that MI5 takes in respect of
pre-charge detention time limits. I would like to make the Service's position on this issue clear.
Since the Security Service is neither a prosecuting authority nor responsible for criminal investigations, we are not,
and never have been, the appropriate body to advise the Government on pre-charge detention time limits.
We have not, therefore, sought to comment publicly or privately on the current proposals, except to say that we
recognise the challenge posed for the police service by the increasingly complex and international character of some
recent terrorist cases.
Jonathan Evans
Director General
MI5 Security Service
9 June 2008
ENDS