06 May 2004

Scarlett selected as MI6 boss

John Scarlett, the chairman of the Joint Intelligence Committee, has been named as the next spy boss at MI6.

Mr Scarlett, who gave evidence to the Hutton Inquiry in his capacity as JIC chairman, was in charge of producing the pre-war dossier on weapons of mass destruction for the government.

The appointment was immediately placed under the microscope. During a press conference with Polish President Aleksander Kwasniewski today, Prime Minister Tony Blair was questioned on the selection of Mr Scarlett.

Mr Blair stressed to reporters that the appointment was not a political decision and had been made by an "independent panel". Describing Mr Scarlett as a "fine public servant" who had served both Conservative and Labour governments, Mr Blair said: "…I think it's very unfortunate if it becomes a matter of political comment."

However, Tory spokesperson on foreign affairs Michael Ancram said that the appointment was "inappropriate" as inquiries into the use of intelligence pertaining to the Iraq conflict were ongoing.

“In today’s world Britain’s Secret Intelligence Service is central to our national security. And it is essential the whole country has the fullest confidence in it. We rightly take great pride in the quality of our intelligence services.

“The Government-appointed Butler Inquiry is currently reviewing the whole question of intelligence, and the use made of it, in the run up to the Iraq War. Given that John Scarlett is central to that review, and that the Inquiry has not yet reported, I believe that this appointment, at this time, is inappropriate".

Liberal Democrat foreign affairs spokesperson Sir Menzies Campbell also questioned the appointment as "highly controversial". He said: "It will only be justified if Mr Scarlett proves to be an effective head of MI6 at a time when success in the campaign against terrorism is essential.

"The responsibility for ensuring that he is not embroiled in political controversy rests fairly and squarely with ministers."

Currently investigating the use of intelligence preceding the Iraq war, the government instigated Butler Inquiry has failed to attract cross-party support. Both Conservatives and Liberal Democrats have said that the remit of the inquiry is too narrow.

Ratified by Foreign Secretary Jack Straw, Mr Scarlett's appointment was made following a recommendation by a selection panel.

Mr Straw said that John Scarlett was a "worthy successor" to Sir Richard Dearlove as he had the operational background, personal qualities and wide experience for the post.

Educated at Magdalen College, Oxford, Mr Scarlett has a first in modern history and speaks Russian and French.

As is customary for the head of MI6, Mr Scarlett will neither make public appearances nor be required to give interviews.

(SP)