asked the Prime Minister when the Commission appointed under the Interception of Communications Act 1985 will present its annual report; and if she will make a statement.

A Copy of the 1986 annual report by Lord Justice Lloyd has been laid before this House today in accordance with section 8(7) of the Interception of Communications Act 1985. The confidential appendix to the report has been excluded from that copy in accordance with section 8(8) of the Act. 1 am grateful to the Commissioner for the thoroughness of his report and the reassurance it contains. Lord Justice Lloyd comments on the high value of the intelligence obtained from interception, and the care taken by all concerned to oberve not only the letter but also the spirit of the Act. The Commissioner's report suggests a small number of improvements to the procedures observed in dealing with these cases. These recommendations have been accepted and the improvements suggested are being implemented.