To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what role he has in determining what information is classified and who is able to have access to classified information in his Department. (182345)

The Department follows Government policy on the classification of information and access to such information.

The value of information determines its classification. Only the originator of the information can apply a protective marking and this cannot be changed without the originator's consent.

In terms of access, the need to know principle applies—access is limited strictly to those who are security cleared to the appropriate level and who need such access to carry out their official duties.