13 March 1999. Thanks to Anonymous.
Source: http://www.gchq.gov.uk [Excerpts]
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http://www.gchq.gov.uk/textversion/statutory.html
GCHQ Cheltenham is the centre for Her Majesty's Government's Signal Intelligence (Sigint) activities. Sigint is the term given to information gathered about foreign countries and their activities by intercepting and studying their electro-magnetic transmissions. Like all major powers the United Kingdom engages in this practice, and the fact that it does so in peacetime, and that GCHQ is the responsible Department, was officially disclosed by the Prime Minister on 12 May 1983. GCHQ was put on a statutory basis with the coming into force of the Intelligence Services Act 1994 on 15 December 1994, which set out its two functions as being:
(a) to monitor or interfere with electromagnetic, acoustic and other emissions and any equipment producing such emissions and to obtain and provide information derived from or related to such emissions or equipment and from encrypted material; and
(b) to provide advice and assistance about -
(i) languages, including terminology used for technical matters, and
(ii) cryptography and other matters relating to the protection of information and other material, to the armed forces of the Crown, to Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom or to a Northern Ireland Department or to any other organisation which is determined for the purposes of this section in such manner as may be specified by the Prime Minister.
These functions are exercisable only -
(a) in the interests of national security, with particular reference to the defence and foreign policies of Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom; or
(b) in the interests of the economic well-being of the United Kingdom in relation to the actions or intentions of persons outside the British Islands; or
(c) in support of the prevention or detection of serious crime.
In producing intelligence GCHQ (and its sister Agency SIS, which is also covered by this Act) responds to requirements laid on it by the Joint Intelligence Committee or by the law enforcement agencies. The Director of GCHQ must ensure that GCHQ only obtains information needed in order to fulfil its statutory functions, and that there are safeguards in place concerning the disclosure of such information.
The Secretary of State may issue warrants to GCHQ and SIS authorising actions in relation to property and wireless telegraphy. In all cases he must be satisfied that any action proposed is necessary in relation to the functions of the Agencies. The Act also establishes a Commissioner, a senior judge independent of the Government, who keeps under review the Secretary of State's use of his powers under the Act to issue warrants.
The Act provides for a Tribunal to investigate complaints about GCHQ and SIS. The Tribunal, consisting of senior members of the legal profession, is independent of the Government. Any person or organisation may complain to the Tribunal about anything they believe GCHQ or SIS may have done in relation to them or their property. Complaints about property may include those which relate to a person's wireless telegraphy transmission, or the place where he or she lives or works. The Intelligence Services Commissioner is required to assist the Tribunal with complaints which relate to actions where an authorisation may have been given or in cases which involve property.
The Act also establishes the Intelligence and Security Committee to examine the expenditure, administration and policy of the three UK Intelligence and Security Agencies: SIS, GCHQ and the Security Service. The nine Committee members, drawn from the three main political parties and from both Houses of Parliament, report directly to the Prime Minister on their work, and through him to Parliament. They are briefed on relevant areas of the work of the Agencies by Ministers and officials, and they visit their headquarters and outstations. Within the broad range of the Agencies' activities, the Committee focuses on recruitment, personnel security and vetting, training, staff management and other administrative issues, expenditure questions and the policies that guide their operational work.
The full text of the Intelligence Services Act 1994 is as follows:
INTELLIGENCE SERVICES ACT 1994 (C. 13)
Arrangement of Sections
The Secret Intelligence Service
1. The Secret Intelligence Service.
2. The Chief of the Intelligence Service.
GCHQ
3. The Government Communications Headquarters.
4. The Director of GCHQ.
Authorisation of certain actions
5. Warrants: general.
6. Warrants: procedure and duration, etc.
7. Authorisation of acts outside the British Islands.
The Commissioner, the Tribunal and the investigation of complaints
8. The Commissioner.
9. Investigation of complaints.
The Intelligence and Security Committee
10. The Intelligence and Security Committee.
Supplementary
11. Interpretation and consequential amendments.
12. Short title, commencement and extent.
Schedule 1 Investigation of Complaints.
Schedule 2 The Tribunal.
Schedule 3 The Intelligence and Security Committee.
Schedule 4 Consequential amendments.
An Act to make provision about the Secret Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Headquarters, including provision for the issue of warrants and authorisations enabling certain actions to be taken and for the issue of such warrants and authorisations to be kept under review; to make further provision about warrants issued on applications by the Security Service; to establish a procedure for the investigation of complaints about the Secret Intelligence Service and the Government Communications Headquarters; to make provision for the establishment of an Intelligence and Security Committee to scrutinise all three of those bodies; and for connected purposes.
[26th May 1994]
Be it enacted by the Queen's most Excellent Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and Commons, in this present Parliament assembled, and by the authority of the same, as follows: -
The Secret Intelligence Service
1.
(1) There shall continue to be a Secret Intelligence Service (in this Act referred to as "the Intelligence Service") under the authority of the Secretary of State; and, subject to subsection (2) below, its functions shall be -
(a) to obtain and provide information relating to the actions or intentions of persons outside the British Islands; and
(b) to perform other tasks relating to the actions or intentions of such persons.
(2) The functions of the Intelligence Service shall be exercisable only -
(a) in the interests of national security, with particular reference to the defence and foreign policies of Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom; or
(b) in the interests of the economic well-being of the United Kingdom; or
(c) in support of the prevention or detection of serious crime.
The Chief of the Intelligence Service
2.
(1) The operations of the Intelligence Service shall continue to be under the control of a Chief of that Service appointed by the Secretary of State.
(2) The Chief of the Intelligence Service shall be responsible for the efficiency of that Service and it shall be his duty to ensure -
(a) that there are arrangements for securing that no information is obtained by the Intelligence Service except so far as necessary for the proper discharge of its functions and that no information is disclosed by it except so far as necessary-
(i) for that purpose;
(ii) in the interests of national security;
(iii) for the purpose of the prevention or detection of serious crime; or
(iv) for the purpose of any criminal proceedings; and
(b) that the Intelligence Service does not take any action to further the interests of any United Kingdom political party.
(3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2)(a) above, the disclosure of information shall be regarded as necessary for the proper discharge of the functions of the Intelligence Service if it consists of -
(a) the disclosure of records subject to and in accordance with the Public Records Act 1958; or
(b) the disclosure, subject to and in accordance with arrangements approved by the Secretary of State, of information to the Comptroller and Auditor General for the purposes of his functions.
(4) The Chief of the Intelligence Service shall make an annual report on the work of the Intelligence Service to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State and may at any time report to either of them on any matter relating to its work.
The Government Communications Headquarters
3.
(1) There shall continue to be a Government Communications Headquarters under the authority of the Secretary of State; and, subject to subsection (2) below, its functions shall be -
(a) to monitor or interfere with electromagnetic, acoustic and other emissions and any equipment producing such emissions and to obtain and provide information derived from or related to such emissions or equipment and from encrypted material; and
(b) to provide advice and assistance about -
(i) languages, including terminology used for technical matters, and (ii) cryptography and other matters relating to the protection of information and other material, to the armed forces of the Crown, to Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom or to a Northern Ireland Department or to any other organisation which is determined for the purposes of this section in such manner as may be specified by the Prime Minister.
(2) The functions referred to in subsection (1)(a) above shall be exercisable only -
(a) in the interests of national security, with particular reference to the defence and foreign policies of Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom; or
(b) in the interests of the economic well-being of the United Kingdom in relation to the actions or intentions of persons outside the British Islands; or (c) in support of the prevention or detection of serious crime.
(3) In this Act the expression "GCHQ" refers to the Government Communications Headquarters and to any unit or part of a unit of the armed forces of the Crown which is for the time being required by the Secretary of State to assist the Government Communications Headquarters in carrying out its functions.
The Director of GCHQ
4.
(1) The operations of GCHQ shall continue to be under the control of a Director appointed by the Secretary of State.
(2) The Director shall be responsible for the efficiency of GCHQ and it shall be his duty to ensure -
(a) that there are arrangements for securing that no information is obtained by GCHQ except so far as necessary for the proper discharge of its functions and that no information is disclosed by it except so far as necessary for that purpose or for the purpose of any criminal proceedings; and
(b) that GCHQ does not take any action to further the interests of any United Kingdom political party.
(3) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2)(a) above, the disclosure of information shall be regarded as necessary for the proper discharge of the functions of GCHQ if it consists of -
(a) the disclosure of records subject to and in accordance with the Public Records Act 1958; or
(b) the disclosure, subject to and in accordance with arrangements approved by the Secretary of State, of information to the Comptroller and Auditor General for the purposes of his functions.
(4) The Director shall make an annual report on the work of GCHQ to the Prime Minister and the Secretary of State and may at any time report to either of them on any matter relating to its work.
Authorisation of certain actions
Warrants: general
5.
(1) No entry on or interference with property or with wireless telegraphy shall be unlawful if it is authorised by a warrant issued by the Secretary of State under this section.
(2) The Secretary of State may, on an application made by the Security Service, the Intelligence Service or GCHQ, issue a warrant under this section authorising the taking, subject to subsection (3) below, of such action as is specified in the warrant in respect of any property so specified or in respect of wireless telegraphy so specified if the Secretary of State
(a) thinks it necessary for the action to be taken on the ground that it is likely to be of substantial value in assisting, as the case may be, -
(i) the Security Service in carrying out any of its functions under the 1989 Act; or
(ii) the Intelligence Service in carrying out any of its functions under section 1 above; or
(iii) GCHQ in carrying out any function which falls within section 3(1)(a) above; and
(b) is satisfied that what the action seeks to achieve cannot reasonably be achieved by other means; and
(c) is satisfied that satisfactory arrangements are in force under section 2(2)(a) of the 1989 Act (duties of the Director-General of the Security Service), section 2(2)(a) above or section 4(2)(a) above with respect to the disclosure of information obtained by virtue of this section and that any information obtained under the warrant will be subject to those arrangements.
(3) A warrant authorising the taking of action in support of the prevention or detection of serious crime may not relate to property in the British Islands.
(4) Subject to subsection (5) below, the Security Service may make an application under subsection (2) above for a warrant to be issued authorising that Service (or a person acting on its behalf) to take such action as is specified in the warrant on behalf of the Intelligence Service or GCHQ and, where such a warrant is issued, the functions of the Security Service shall include the carrying out of the action so specified, whether or not it would otherwise be within its functions.
(5) The Security Service may not make an application for a warrant by virtue of subsection (4) above except where the action proposed to be authorised by the warrant -
(a) is action in respect of which the Intelligence Service or, as the case may be, GCHQ could make such an application; and (b) is to be taken otherwise than in support of the prevention or detection of serious crime.
Warrants: procedure and duration, etc.
6.
(1) A warrant shall not be issued except -
(a) under the hand of the Secretary of State; or
(b) in an urgent case where the Secretary of State has expressly authorised its issue and a statement of that fact is endorsed on it, under the hand of a senior official of his department.
(2) A warrant shall, unless renewed under subsection (3) below, cease to have effect -
(a) if the warrant was under the hand of the Secretary of State, at the end of the period of six months beginning with the day on which it was issued; and
(b) in any other case, at the end of the period ending with the second working day following that day.
(3) If at any time before the day on which a warrant would cease to have effect the Secretary of State considers it necessary for the warrant to continue to have effect for the purpose for which it was issued, he may by an instrument under his hand renew it for a period of six months beginning with that day.
(4) The Secretary of State shall cancel a warrant if he is satisfied that the action authorised by it is no longer necessary.
(5) In the preceding provisions of this section "warrant" means a warrant under section 5 above.
(6) As regards the Security Service, this section and section 5 above have effect in place of section 3 (property warrants) of the 1989 Act, and accordingly -
(a) a warrant issued under that section of the 1989 Act and current when this section and section 5 above come into force shall be treated as a warrant under section 5 above, but without any change in the date on which the warrant was in fact issued or last renewed; and
(b) section 3 of the 1989 Act shall cease to have effect.
Authorisation of acts outside the British Islands.
7.
(1) If, apart from this section, a person would be liable in the United Kingdom for any act done outside the British Islands, he shall not be so liable if the act is one which is authorised to be done by virtue of an authorisation given by the Secretary of State under this section.
(2) In subsection (1) above "liable in the United Kingdom" means liable under the criminal or civil law of any part of the United Kingdom.
(3) The Secretary of State shall not give an authorisation under this section unless he is satisfied -
(a) that any acts which may be done in reliance on the authorisation or, as the case may be, the operation in the course of which the acts may be done will be necessary for the proper discharge of a function of the Intelligence Service; and
(b) that there are satisfactory arrangements in force to secure -
(i) that nothing will be done in reliance on the authorisation beyond what is necessary for the proper discharge of a function of the Intelligence Service; and
(ii) that, in so far as any acts may be done in reliance on the authorisation, their nature and likely consequences will be reasonable, having regard to the purposes for which they are carried out; and
(c) that there are satisfactory arrangements in force under section 2(2)(a) above with respect to the disclosure of information obtained by virtue of this section and that any information obtained by virtue of anything done in reliance on the authorisation will be subject to those arrangements.
(4) Without prejudice to the generality of the power of the Secretary of State to give an authorisation under this section, such an authorisation -
(a) may relate to a particular act or acts, to acts of a description specified in the authorisation or to acts undertaken in the course of an operation so specified;
(b) may be limited to a particular person or persons of a description so specified; and (c) may be subject to conditions so specified.
(5) An authorisation shall not be given under this section except -
(a) under the hand of the Secretary of State; or
(b) in an urgent case where the Secretary of State has expressly authorised it to be given and a statement of that fact is endorsed on it, under the hand of a senior official of his department.
(6) An authorisation shall, unless renewed under subsection (7) below, cease to have effect-
(a) if the authorisation was given under the hand of the Secretary of State, at the end of the period of six months beginning with the day on which it was given;
(b) in any other case, at the end of the period ending with the second working day following the day on which it was given.
(7) If at any time before the day on which an authorisation would cease to have effect the Secretary of State considers it necessary for the authorisation to continue to have effect for the purpose for which it was given, he may by an instrument under his hand renew it for a period of six months beginning with that day.
(8) The Secretary of State shall cancel an authorisation if he is satisfied that any act authorised by it is no longer necessary.
The Commissioner, the Tribunal and the investigation of complaints
The Commissioner
8.
(1) The Prime Minister shall appoint as a Commissioner for the purposes of this Act a person who holds or has held high judicial office within the meaning of the Appellate Jurisdiction Act 1876.
(2) The Commissioner shall hold office in accordance with the terms of his appointment and there shall be paid to him by the Secretary of State such allowances as the Treasury may determine.
(3) In addition to his functions under the subsequent provisions of this Act, the Commissioner shall keep under review the exercise by the Secretary of State of his powers under sections 5 to 7 above, except in so far as the powers under sections 5 and 6 above relate to the Security Service.
(4) It shall be the duty of -
(a) every member of the Intelligence Service,
(b) every member of GCHQ, and
(c) every official of the department of the Secretary of State, to disclose or give to the Commissioner such documents or information as he may require for the purpose of enabling him to discharge his functions.
(5) The Commissioner shall make an annual report on the discharge of his functions to the Prime Minister and may at any time report to him on any matter relating to his discharge of those functions.
(6) The Prime Minister shall lay before each House of Parliament a copy of each annual report made by the Commissioner under subsection (5) above together with a statement as to whether any matter has been excluded from that copy in pursuance of subsection (7) below.
(7) If it appears to the Prime Minister, after consultation with the Commissioner, that the publication of any matter in a report would be prejudicial to the continued discharge of the functions of the Intelligence Service or, as the case may be, GCHQ, the Prime Minister may exclude that matter from the copy of the report as laid before each House of Parliament.
(8) The Secretary of State may, after consultation with the Commissioner and with the approval of the Treasury as to numbers, provide the Commissioner with such staff as the Secretary of State thinks necessary for the discharge of his functions.
Investigation of complaints
9.
(1) There shall be a Tribunal for the purpose of investigating complaints about the Intelligence Service or GCHQ in the manner specified in Schedule 1 to this Act.
(2) The Commissioner shall have the functions conferred on him by Schedule 1 to this Act and give the Tribunal all such assistance in discharging their functions under that Schedule as they may require.
(3) Schedule 2 to this Act shall have effect with respect to the constitution, procedure and other matters relating to the Tribunal.
(4) The decisions of the Tribunal and the Commissioner under Schedule 1 to this Act (including decisions as to their jurisdictions) shall not be subject to appeal or liable to be questioned in any court.
The Intelligence and Security Committee
10.
(1) There shall be a Committee, to be known as the Intelligence and Security Committee and in this section referred to as "the Committee", to examine the expenditure, administration and policy of -
(a) the Security Service;
(b) the Intelligence Service; and
(c) GCHQ.
(2) The Committee shall consist of nine members -
(a) who shall be drawn both from the members of the House of Commons and from the members of the House of Lords; and (b) none of whom shall be a Minister of the Crown.
(3) The members of the Committee shall be appointed by the Prime Minister after consultation with the Leader of the Opposition, within the meaning of the Ministerial and other Salaries Act 1975; and one of those members shall be so appointed as Chairman of the Committee.
(4) Schedule 3 to this Act shall have effect with respect to the tenure of office of members of, the procedure of and other matters relating to, the Committee; and in that Schedule "the Committee" has the same meaning as in this section.
(5) The Committee shall make an annual report on the discharge of their functions to the Prime Minister and may at any time report to him on any matter relating to the discharge of those functions.
(6) The Prime Minister shall lay before each House of Parliament a copy of each annual report made by the Committee under subsection (5) above together with a statement as to whether any matter has been excluded from that copy in pursuance of subsection (7) below.
(7) If it appears to the Prime Minister, after consultation with the Committee, that the publication of any matter in a report would be prejudicial to the continued discharge of the functions of either of the Services or, as the case may be, GCHQ, the Prime Minister may exclude that matter from the copy of the report as laid before each House of Parliament.
Supplementary
Interpretation and consequential amendments.
11.
(1) In this Act -
(a) "the 1989 Act" means the Security Service Act 1989;
(b) "the Commissioner" means the Commissioner appointed under section 8 above;
(c) "Minister of the Crown" has the same meaning as in the Ministers of the Crown Act 1975;
(d) "senior official" in relation to a department is a reference to an officer of or above Grade 3 or, as the case may require, Diplomatic Service Senior Grade;
(e) "wireless telegraphy" has the same meaning as in the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 and, in relation to wireless telegraphy, "interfere" has the same meaning as in that Act;
(f) "working day" means any day other than a Saturday, a Sunday, Christmas Day, Good Friday or a day which is a bank holiday under the Banking and Financial Dealings Act 1971 in any part of the United Kingdom.
(2) In consequence of the preceding provisions of this Act, the 1989 Act, the Official Secrets Act 1989 and the Official Secrets Act 1989 (Prescription) Order 1990 shall have effect subject to the amendments in Schedule 4 to this Act.
Short title, commencement and extent
12.
(1) This Act may be cited as the Intelligence Services Act 1994.
(2) This Act shall come into force on such day as the Secretary of State may by an order made by statutory instrument appoint, and different days may be so appointed for different provisions or different purposes.
(3) This Act extends to Northern Ireland.
(4) Her Majesty may by Order in Council direct that any of the provisions of this Act specified in the Order shall extend, with such exceptions, adaptations and modifications as appear to Her to be necessary or expedient, to the Isle of Man, any of the Channel Islands or any colony.
SCHEDULES
Schedule 1
Section 9
Investigation of Complaints
Preliminary
1. Any person may complain to the Tribunal if he is aggrieved by anything which he believes the Intelligence Service or GCHQ has done in relation to him or to any property of his; and, unless the Tribunal consider that the complaint is frivolous or vexatious, they shall deal with it in accordance with this Schedule.
References and investigations by the Tribunal
2. If and so far as the complaint alleges that anything has been done in relation to any property of the complainant, the Tribunal shall refer the complaint to the Commissioner.
3. Subject to paragraph 2 above and paragraph 4 below, the Tribunal shall investigate -
(a) whether the Intelligence Service or, as the case may be, GCHQ has obtained or provided information or performed any other tasks in relation to the actions or intentions of the complainant; and
(b) if so, whether, applying the principles applied by a court on an application for judicial review, the Intelligence Service or GCHQ had reasonable grounds for doing what it did.
4. If, in the course of the investigation of a complaint by the Tribunal, the Tribunal consider that it is necessary to establish whether an authorisation was given under section 7 of this Act to the doing of any act, they shall refer so much of the complaint as relates to the doing of that act to the Commissioner.
Functions of the Commissioner in relation to complaints
5.
(1) Where a reference is made to the Commissioner under paragraph 2 or paragraph 4 above, the Commissioner shall investigate, as the case may require, -
(a) whether a warrant was issued under section 5 of this Act in relation to the property concerned; or
(b) whether an authorisation was given under section 7 of this Act to the doing of the act in question.
(2) If the Commissioner finds that a warrant was issued or an authorisation was given, he shall, applying the principles applied by a court on an application for judicial review, determine whether the Secretary of State was acting properly in issuing or renewing the warrant or, as the case may be, in giving or renewing the authorisation.
(3) The Commissioner shall inform the Tribunal of his conclusion on any reference made to him under paragraph 2 or paragraph 4 above.
Report of conclusions
6.
(1) Where the Tribunal determine under paragraph 3 above that the Intelligence Service or, as the case may be, GCHQ did not have reasonable grounds for doing what it did, they shall -
(a) give notice to the complainant that they have made a determination in his favour; and
(b) make a report of their findings to the Secretary of State and to the Commissioner.
(2) The Tribunal shall also give notice to the complainant of any determination in his favour by the Commissioner under paragraph 5 above.
(3) Where in the case of any complaint no such determination as is mentioned in sub-paragraph (1) or sub-paragraph (2) above is made by the Tribunal or the Commissioner, the Tribunal shall give notice to the complainant that no determination in his favour has been made on his complaint.
Special references by Tribunal to Commissioner
7.
(1) If in any case investigated by the Tribunal -
(a) the Tribunal's conclusions on the matters which they are required to investigate are such that no determination is made by them in favour of the complainant; but
(b) it appears to the Tribunal from the allegations made by the complainant that it is appropriate for there to be an investigation into whether the Intelligence Service or GCHQ has in any other respect acted unreasonably in relation to the complainant or his property, they shall refer that matter to the Commissioner.
(2) The Commissioner may report any matter referred to him under sub-paragraph (1) above to the Secretary of State.
Remedies
8.
(1) Where the Tribunal give a complainant notice of such a determination as is mentioned in paragraph 6(1) above, the Tribunal may do either or both of the following, namely, -
(a) direct that the obtaining and provision of information in relation to the complainant or, as the case may be, the conduct of other activities in relation to him or to any property of his shall cease and that any records relating to such information so obtained or provided or such other activities shall be destroyed;
(b) direct the Secretary of State to pay to the complainant such sum by way of compensation as may be specified by the Tribunal.
(2) Where the Tribunal give a complainant notice of such a determination as is mentioned in paragraph 6(2) above, the Tribunal may do either or both of the following, namely, -
(a) quash any warrant or authorisation which the Commissioner has found to have been improperly issued, renewed or given and which he considers should be quashed;
(b) direct the Secretary of State to pay to the complainant such sum by way of compensation as may be specified by the Commissioner.
(3) Where the Secretary of State receives a report under paragraph 7(2) above, he may take such action in the light of the report as he thinks fit, including any action which the Tribunal have power to take or direct under the preceding provisions of this paragraph.
Supplementary
9. The persons who may complain to the Tribunal under this Schedule include any organisation and any association or combination of persons.
10.
(1) No complaint shall be entertained under this Schedule if and so far as it relates to anything done before the date on which this Schedule comes into force.
(2) Where any activities in relation to any person or his property were instituted before that date and no decision had been taken before that date to discontinue them, paragraphs 2 and 3 above shall have effect as if they had been instituted on that date.
11. Any reference in this Schedule to a complainant's property includes -
(a) a reference to any wireless telegraphy transmission originated or received or intended to be received by him; and
(b) a reference to any place where the complainant resides or works.
SCHEDULE 2
Section 9.
The Tribunal
Constitution of the Tribunal
1.
(1) The Tribunal shall consist of not less than three or more than five members each of whom shall be -
(a) a person who has a 10 year general qualification within the meaning of section 71 of the Courts and Legal Services Act 1990;
(b) an advocate or solicitor in Scotland of at least ten years' standing; or (c) a member of the Bar of Northern Ireland or solicitor of the Supreme Court of Northern Ireland of at least 10 years' standing.
(2) The members of the Tribunal shall be appointed by Her Majesty by Royal Warrant.
(3) A member of the Tribunal shall vacate office at the end of the period of five years beginning with the day of his appointment but shall be eligible for re-appointment.
(4) A member of the Tribunal may be relieved of office by Her Majesty at his own request.
(5) A member of the Tribunal may be removed from office by Her Majesty on an Address presented to Her by both Houses of Parliament.
President and Vice-President
2.
(1) Her Majesty may by Royal Warrant appoint as President or Vice-President of the Tribunal a person who is, or by virtue of that Warrant will be, a member of the Tribunal.
(2) If at any time the President of the Tribunal is temporarily unable to carry out the functions of the President under this Schedule, the Vice-President shall carry out those functions.
(3) A person shall cease to be President or Vice-President of the Tribunal if he ceases to be a member of the Tribunal.
Procedure
3. The functions of the Tribunal in relation to any complaint shall be capable of being carried out, in any place in the United Kingdom, by any two or more members of the Tribunal designated for the purpose by their President; and different members of the Tribunal may carry out functions in relation to different complaints at the same time.
4.
(1) It shall be the duty of every member of the Intelligence Service or, as the case may be, GCHQ to disclose or give to the Tribunal such documents or information as they may require for the purpose of enabling them to carry out their functions under this Act.
(2) Subject to paragraph 6(2) below, the Tribunal shall carry out their functions under this Act in such a way as to secure that no document or information disclosed or given to the Tribunal by any person is disclosed without his consent to any complainant, to any person (other than the Commissioner) holding office under the Crown or to any other person; and accordingly the Tribunal shall not, except in reports under paragraph 6(1)(b) of Schedule 1 to this Act, give any reasons for a determination notified by them to a complainant.
(3) Subject to sub-paragraph (2) above, the Tribunal may determine their own procedure.
Salaries and expenses
5.
(1) The Secretary of State shall pay to the members of the Tribunal such remuneration and allowances as he may with the approval of the Treasury determine.
(2) The Secretary of State shall defray such expenses of the Tribunal as he may with the approval of the Treasury determine.
Staff
6.
(1) The Secretary of State may, after consultation with the Tribunal and with the approval of the Treasury as to numbers, provide the Tribunal with such staff as he thinks necessary for the proper discharge of their functions.
(2) The Tribunal may authorise any member of their staff to obtain any documents or information on the Tribunal's behalf.
Parliamentary disqualification
7.
(1) In Part II of Schedule 1 to the House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 (bodies whose members are disqualified) there shall be inserted at the appropriate place -
"The Tribunal established under section 9 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994".
(2) The same amendment shall be made in Part II of Schedule 1 to the Northern Ireland Assembly Disqualification Act 1975.
SCHEDULE 3
Section 10(4).
The Intelligence and Security Committee
Tenure of office
1.
(1) Subject to the provisions of this paragraph, a member of the Committee shall hold office for the duration of the Parliament in which he is appointed.
(2) A member of the Committee shall vacate office -
(a) if he ceases to be a member of the House of Commons;
(b) if he ceases to be a member of the House of Lords;
(c) if he becomes a Minister of the Crown; or
(d) if he is required to do so by the Prime Minister on the appointment, in accordance with section 10(3) of this Act, of another person as a member in his place.
(3) A member of the Committee may resign at any time by notice to the Prime Minister.
(4) Past service is no bar to appointment as a member of the Committee.
Procedure
2.
(1) Subject to the following provisions of this Schedule, the Committee may determine their own procedure.
(2) If on any matter there is an equality of voting among the members of the Committee, the Chairman shall have a second or casting vote.
(3) The Chairman may appoint one of the members of the Committee to act, in his absence, as chairman at any meeting of the Committee, but sub-paragraph (2) above shall not apply to a chairman appointed under this sub-paragraph.
(4) The quorum of the Committee shall be three.
Access to information
3.
(1) If the Director-General of the Security Service, the Chief of the Intelligence Service or the Director of GCHQ is asked by the Committee to disclose any information, then, as to the whole or any part of the information which is sought, he shall either -
(a) arrange for it to be made available to the Committee subject to and in accordance with arrangements approved by the Secretary of State; or
(b) inform the Committee that it cannot be disclosed either -
(i) because it is sensitive information (as defined in paragraph 4 below) which, in his opinion, should not be made available under paragraph (a) above; or
(ii) because the Secretary of State has determined that it should not be disclosed. (2) The fact that any particular information is sensitive information shall not prevent its disclosure under sub-paragraph (1)(a) above if the Director-General, the Chief or the Director (as the case may require) considers it safe to disclose it.
(3) Information which has not been disclosed to the Committee on the ground specified in sub-paragraph (1)(b)(i) above shall be disclosed to them if the Secretary of State considers it desirable in the public interest.
(4) The Secretary of State shall not make a determination under sub-paragraph (1)(b)(ii) above with respect to any information on the grounds of national security alone and, subject to that, he shall not make such a determination unless the information appears to him to be of such a nature that, if he were requested to produce it before a Departmental Select Committee of the House of Commons, he would think it proper not to do so.
(5) The disclosure of information to the Committee in accordance with the preceding provisions of this paragraph shall be regarded for the purposes of the 1989 Act or, as the case may be, this Act as necessary for the proper discharge of the functions of the Security Service, the Intelligence Service or, as the case may require, GCHQ.
Sensitive information
4. The following information is sensitive information for the purposes of paragraph 3 above-
(a) information which might lead to the identification of, or provide details of, sources of information, other assistance or operational methods available to the Security Service, the Intelligence Service or GCHQ;
(b) information about particular operations which have been, are being or are proposed to be undertaken in pursuance of any of the functions of those bodies; and
(c) information provided by, or by an agency of, the Government of a territory outside the United Kingdom where that Government does not consent to the disclosure of the information.
SCHEDULE 4
Section 11(2).
Consequential amendments
The Security Service Act 1989
1.
(1) In section 2 of the Security Service Act 1989 (duties of the Director-General of the Security Service) in subsection (2) after the words "serious crime" there shall be inserted "or for the purpose of any criminal proceedings".
(2) After subsection (3) of that section there shall be inserted the following subsection -
"(3A) Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (2)(a) above, the disclosure of information shall be regarded as necessary for the proper discharge of the functions of the Security Service if it consists of -
(a) the disclosure of records subject to and in accordance with the Public Records Act 1958; or
(b) the disclosure, subject to and in accordance with arrangements approved by the Secretary of State, of information to the Comptroller and Auditor General for the purposes of his functions."
2. In section 4(3) of that Act (Security Service Commissioner to review exercise of powers by Secretary of State), for the words "powers under section 3 above" there shall be substituted "powers, so far as they relate to applications made by the Service, under sections 5 and 6 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994."
3. In paragraph 4(1) of Schedule 1 to that Act (Security Service Commissioner to investigate whether the Secretary of State acted properly in issuing or renewing warrant), after the words "section 3 of this Act" there shall be inserted "or section 5 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994".
The Official Secrets Act 1989
4. In section 4 of the Official Secrets Act 1989 (disclosure of information which results in commission of an offence etc.) in subsection (3)(b) after the words "under section 3 of the Security Service Act 1989" there shall be inserted "or under section 5 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994 or by an authorisation given under section 7 of that Act".
The Official Secrets Act 1989 (Prescription) Order 1990
5. At the end of Schedule 3 to the Official Secrets Act 1989 (Prescription) Order 1990 (bodies giving official authorisations etc.) there shall be added the following entry -
"The Tribunal established under section 9 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994. Section 7(5)".
http://www.gchq.gov.uk/textversion/history.html
The predecessor to GCHQ was the Government Code and Cypher School (GC&CS), which was established by the Cabinet in 1919 both to study the methods of cipher communications used by foreign powers and to advise on the security of British codes and ciphers. It was originally brought into existence as an inter-service organisation of 25 cryptanalysts, with about 30 supporting staff and a few Service officers recruited from remnants of the wartime Room 40 and MI, the cryptanalytical sections of the Admiralty and the War Office during WWI, and was initially placed under the Admiralty for administrative purposes. In 1922, on completion of the enquiries of the Cabinet's Secret Service Committee, it went with the SIS under the control of the Foreign Office. In 1923, the head of SIS was renamed 'chief of the secret service and Director of GC&CS' - therefore GC&CS then came underneath his authority although the staff and organisation remained separate from SIS. The Naval Section was introduced in 1924, the Army section in 1930 and the Air section in 1936.
The GC&CS had two functions, on the one hand as a school dedicated to the study of worldwide cryptographic method and practice and on the other as a Sigint Centre committed to the extraction of the maximum intelligence. It moved from London to Bletchley Park in 1939 and was there for the duration of WWII, and BP was then known as the War station, the Park or the Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ). It grew rapidly in numbers to over 7000 in 1944, but GC&CS resources were still limited and reporting was governed by current intelligence priorities, readability of ciphers, availability of interception and processing resources and ability to intercept required messages. Nevertheless they managed to produce timely intelligence on a very wide range of subjects and Churchill claimed that the work of GC&CS helped to save many lives on the Atlantic convoys and reduced the war by two years.
Immediately after the end of WWII, intelligence production staff at Bletchley Park turned from breaking, analysis and reporting of enemy high grade machine cipher messages to the monumental task of compiling a history of the war in the West, which was mainly based on Sigint reports issued daily during the war. The GC&CS was officially renamed GCHQ. The organisation moved from Bletchley Park to London in 1945 and then to Cheltenham, Gloucestershire in 1952, where it operates today.
The Bletchley Park site in Milton Keynes, originally used by the GPO and British Telecom, has now been taken over by the Bletchley Park Trust (BPT). The BPT has set up a museum to the workings of the wartime operation and has many original features on display, including a replica of the Colossus machine built from people's memories as the original plans were destroyed on Churchill's orders at the end of WWII. Several examples of the famous Enigma machine are also on display with detailed information on how it was used. GCHQ has helped by providing original documents and samples of some wartime devices such as Enigma to go alongside the Colossus reconstruction.
GCHQ has released to the Public Record Office a considerable number of wartime and pre-war records inherited from the GC&CS, and continues to review for release the remaining records from this era as fast as resources permit. These cover all aspects of Sigint operations carried out by the GC&CS, particularly the Naval and Air sections and the Sigint Reporting Centre. The works include summaries of German Air Force, Army and Navy reports on a wide range of subjects including operational administrative and logistic matters obtained by the interception and decryption of signalled communications. For example, the Naval Section at BP was tasked with production of intelligence reports based on cryptographic exploitation of German, Italian and Japanese naval enciphered messages and analysis of related naval communications networks, and many of these are open at the Public Record Office.
The following is a list of all material that has been released to the PRO by GCHQ so far:
HW1: Daily digests of Signal Intelligence passed to the Prime Minister; messages
and correspondence.
HW2: Cheadle Station War diaries.
HW3: History of UK Signal Intelligence, 1914-1945 (including the Zimmerman
telegram incident of 1917).
HW4: History of Far East combined Bureau (FECB) and HMS Anderson (Sigint
Centre Far East).
HW5: German Section - Reports of German Army and Air Force High Grade machine
decrypts (CX/FJ, JQ and MSS reports), 1940-1945.
HW7: Room 40 and successors; First World War Sigint official histories and
other miscellaneous records.
HW8: GC&CS Naval section's daily bulletins and daily digests.
HW9: CESG Registered files, security of Electronic communications.
HW10: Japanese section Diplomatic intelligence summary reports.
HW11: WWII official histories.
HW12: Diplomatic section and predecessors; Decrypts of intercepted diplomatic
communications (BJ series).
HW13: WWII intelligence summaries (AI, NI and MI/JQ reports).
HW14: Directorate - Policy papers and other correspondence, 1939-1945.
HW15: Venona project records.
HW16: Decrypts of German police communications during WWII.
HW17: Decrypts of Communist International (Comintern) messages.
http://www.gchq.gov.uk/textversion/technol.html
The immense size and sheer power of GCHQ's supercomputing architecture is difficult to imagine. A large number of machines are used for various computationally intensive tasks within GCHQ. Many older machines were supplied by CDC, although most of our more modern systems were designed and manufactured by Cray Research. GCHQ computing systems range from low end PC based systems to the supercomputing complexes described above. Some, such as the Tandem-based storage systems, are classed as legacy systems, while others such as the modern Cray systems are state of the art. Extensive use is made of Sun workstations for high end data processing and other applications where a high degree of local computation is required. A programme is underway to upgrade all General Purpose Workstations (GPW) to Windows NT 4, thus providing a common desktop to GPW users throughout GCHQ. Distributed Redundant Array of Inexpensive Disks (D-RAID) architectures are employed in the robust storage of very large amounts of data. GCHQ employs one of the largest long term bulk near line storage systems in the world. Data is stored in a number of locations on a variety of media, including magnetic tape, cartridges, recordable Compact Disc and optical storage technologies. The systems used by GCHQ are among the most secure in the world. All traffic, whether it be voice, fax or the Local Area Networks (LANs) and Wide Area Networks (WANs) used for data communications are secured by state of the art cryptographic products designed and manufactured internally. A number of these products are also supplied to other UK Government Departments and Agencies by GCHQ/CESG, which invented and developed Public-key cryptography.
GCHQ has an interest in all aspects of modern telecommunications and uses a variety of systems designed to operate on all frequencies over which data can be transmitted. The work of GCHQ throws up a number of obstacles not normally encountered in the commercial world. GCHQ must therefore be able to cope with these obstacles and produce intelligence with a very high degree of accuracy, timeliness and reliability. GCHQ puts a significant effort into research in the areas of antenna design and signals analysis, thus maintaining our world leading capabilities in these areas.
All GCHQ systems are linked together on the largest LAN in Europe, which is connected to other sites around the world via one of the largest WANs in the world. The LAN is based on a number of media, including Ethernet and Fibre Distributed Data Interface (FDDI), and its main networking protocol is Internet Protocol (IP). The WAN uses very high speed dial up and leased lines, protected by cryptographic equipment designed, manufactured and tested internally. Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM) links are under consideration for the WAN.
Where possible, GCHQ makes use of appropriate off-the-shelf software and operating systems. However, certain applications that are unique to GCHQ necessitate the development of bespoke software, often requiring highly advanced mathematical and software techniques rarely found in the commercial world. Some of these applications may involve Signals Analysis, Complex Data Manipulation, Translation and Transcription. Listed below are some of the packages used at GCHQ with which you may be familiar:
Operating Systems & Environments: UNIX, X Windows; DOS, Windows 3.1, Windows NT; OS/2.
Languages: C, C++, Visual C++, Ada, Pascal, Fortran, PL2, Java; Perl, Awk and various other scripting languages.
Web Servers and Browsers: Netscape Enterprise Server, Proxy Server, Navigator; Microsoft Internet Explorer; Allaire Cold Fusion.
Very High Speed Integrated Circuit (VHSIC) Hardware Description Language (VHDL) is used in system development stages and circuits are implemented in discrete components, Integrated Circuits (ICs), Field Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) and Application Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs). Most systems are PC based or rack mounted, although some have more demanding requirements. GCHQ is moving towards CE safety accreditation for all new systems, although all field systems are already fully Tempest tested.
http://www.gchq.gov.uk/textversion/vacancies.html
Government Communications Headquarters Information for Senior Technical Opportunities Information for Applicants |
Government Communications Headquarters is located in the pleasant environment of Cheltenham and the Cotswolds. GCHQ, incorporating the Communications Electronic Security Group (CESG) is a unique place to work, not only because of the nature of our business but also because of the extremely skilled, professional and dedicated people who work here. GCHQ plays a vital role in protecting the security of the nation's official and military communications and advising government and industry on communications and computer security. In addition, we study a wide range of telecommunications and other electronic signals to provide Britain with defence and foreign intelligence.
THE VACANCIES We are inviting applications from Technical Specialists for a variety of roles within IT, engineering and technical management. Current vacancies are mainly in the areas of Software Development, Systems Engineering, Networking and Project Engineering. The positions are permanent although in some exceptional circumstances fixed term appointments may be considered. In such cases, terms and conditions would be determined on an individual basis. Part time working will also be considered. Appointments will be at the GC9 level. However, there is potential, following the interviews, for more experienced candidates to be recommended for higher positions.
JOB DESCRIPTIONS & QUALIFICATIONS
General You should hold a degree in a relevant engineering/technological discipline, or else be of graduate calibre and possess a high level of relevant experience (at least 3 years relevant experience in some or all of the fields described overleaf). In addition to a good understanding of modern IT and communications systems technologies, you will be customer focussed and possess some commercial acumen, enabling you to respond to customer needs on time and within budget. Flexible and constantly looking to innovate, you will also have experience of integrating commercial off-the-shelf software packages into systems. There are no age restrictions, though you should be able to offer 5 years service before the normal retirement age of 60.
Software Development In these roles you will typically work on the analysis, design and development of software for large computer systems, which may include high-performance workstations and database management systems. You will have a track record of successful delivery of software products resulting from your methodical approach to software development and integrating commercial off-the-shelf software packages into systems. At more senior levels, you would provide technical leadership of several teams working on related projects and exercise your experience in the analysis, design and delivery of complex software systems to the full.
Systems engineering You will be involved in the specification, design, development and delivery of a range of GCHQ's modern, innovative and high-technology systems, developing and meeting customer requirements. You will have experience of modern system design methods, and a good understanding of telecommunications, computer communications, high performance computing or large databases. At more senior levels, you would exercise your ability to develop customer requirements into IT/communication systems specifications, and to co-ordinate the development of major sections of engineering programmes by multi-discipline teams.
Networking Many of GCHQ's IT and communications systems are based on modern networking techniques, including ATM, IP and X.400. To participate in the development of these and next-generation networking systems, you will possess a modern skill set, probably based on a background in the telecomms/real-time industry, coupled with a track-record of successful delivery of complex networking projects Project engineering You will lead a small project team, drawing on your leadership skills and experience of the project life-cycle. Innovative and hands-on in your approach, you will also translate user needs into technical specifications. In more senior roles, you would take charge of large projects, dealing with internal customers and external agencies, capitalising on your experience of delivering complex technical projects, preferably gained within the telecommunications or IT industries. You will also have the analytical and interpersonal skills to identify customer needs and deal with collaborating organisations, as well as the professionalism to present at a high level.
BENEFITS
Salary All jobs fall within the Technologist Job/Pay groups and are allocated to pay ranges on special recruitment and retention grounds. These ranges may be adjusted according to the changing recruitment and retention needs of the Department. Starting salary will be dependent upon experience and qualifications, but will be in the following ranges, which will be discussed at interview. In some cases intermediate pay ranges may also be used. GC9: Range 21 - £21,457 - £27,535 Range 23 - £23,667 - £30,373 Range 25 - £26,094 - £33,487 Higher salaries may be available for more senior positions. GCHQ operates a Performance Related Pay Scheme which allows members of staff who perform at a consistently high standard to earn rates of pay beyond the standard rates. The salary is paid monthly, in arrears, by credit transfer. Salary scales are reviewed annually on 1 October. Probation and Prospects There is a one year probationary period. Progression to higher grades based on ability and merit is open to all members of staff Continuing Personal Development GCHQ has a Continuing Personal Development (CPD) programme, which has been established to promote in-career advancement and is available to each member of staff. The CPD programme is linked to the IEE CPD and other similar schemes. Part of the annual staff appraisal scheme involves the development of an individual personal development plan for each member of staff. Any training required is provided by our Learning and Development Unit using both internal and external training resources Non-contributory pension scheme GCHQ personnel are members of the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme, which is non-contributory and index-linked and therefore highly regarded. The only contribution members make is 1.5% of salary (which qualifies for full tax relief) towards the cost of providing for their widow/widower Relocation expenses Relocation expenses may be payable after beginning your appointment if you satisfy GCHQ that you have to move house to live within reasonable distance of your new place of work. If you were to resign within 2 years you would be asked to repay a proportion of the expenses advanced by GCHQ. Further details will be made available prior to your having to make any formal commitments. Working hours You will normally work a 5-day week of 42 hours gross (37 hours net, excluding lunch breaks). A system of flexible working hours is in operation. Should overtime working be necessary, reasonable effort will be made to give you advance notice to minimise the inconvenience caused and you will be paid for any overtime worked at the rates laid down in the Staff Handbook. Part-time working will also be considered. Annual leave In addition to 10.5 days Public and Privilege holidays per year, you will be entitled to an annual leave allowance of 4 weeks and 2 days rising to 5 weeks after one year and 6 weeks after 15 years' total service. Part-time employees will receive a pro rata allocation.
STAFF RELATIONS Members of staff at GCHQ are encouraged to belong to and play a full part in the trade union or staff association of their choice. Terms and conditions of service exclusive to GCHQ staff, including pay, will be negotiated periodically by the Government Communications Group (GCG), who have sole negotiating rights in such matters.
PLACE OF WORK The majority of posts are at one of the two sites in Cheltenham (Oakley or Benhall) but there may be some vacancies at our related outstations elsewhere in the UK. There could be a requirement for UK travel in the service of the Department and there may also be opportunities for overseas travel.
SELECTION
Security, Nationality and Residence GCHQ is a Civil Service Department under the Ministerial responsibility of the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs; you will be eligible only if you meet the security, nationality and residence requirements details of which are provided in the enclosed leaflet. Enquiries will also need to be carried out to allow the necessary security clearance to be granted to applicants. This process can take 3-4 months. The Selection Process There is no closing date for applications, as recruitment to the above positions will continue until all positions are filled. However,applications will be dealt with on a first-come-first-served basis. Applicants should send their CV with their initial application which will be assessed against our selection criteria. Candidates who appear from the information provided to have the requisite qualifications and experience will be invited to a first interview. Special arrangements can be made for people with disabilities. Successful candidates will be invited to a final interview at GCHQ which will be attended by senior technical managers. This will confirm the candidate's technical competencies and will also determine the most suitable roles to match them. If you are successful at final interview, you will be offered an appointment subject to satisfactory completion of enquiries into nationality, health, security and other matters. Equal Opportunity GCHQ is committed to equal opportunities for all. Selection will be on the basis of ability, qualifications and fitness for the work. Applications are welcome from all qualified individuals irrespective of race, sex, sexual orientation or marital status. A guaranteed interview scheme is operated for suitably qualified disabled candidates.
GCHQ RECRUITMENT OFFICE Box 138 Cheltenham Glos GL52 5UD Tel: 01242 232912/3 Fax: 01242 260108 E-mail: recruitment.gchq@dial.pipex.com
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Government Communications Headquarters Information for Applicants Technologists: IT, Software Development Electronics & Communications Mainstream Opportunities & Fast-Track Programmes Reference: GC10/1/99 |
You can apply to the address at the bottom of the page or email us for an application form at recruitment.gchq@dial.pipex.com. Alternatively you can print off an Application Form (PDF Format). |
Government Communications Headquarters (GCHQ) is located in the pleasant environment of Cheltenham and the Cotswolds. It is a unique place to work, not only because of the nature of our business but also because of the extremely skilled, professional and dedicated people who work here. GCHQ plays a vital role in protecting the security of the nation's official and military communications and advising government and industry on communications and computer security. In addition, we study a wide range of telecommunications and other electronic signals to provide Britain with defence and foreign intelligence GCHQ is looking to recruit a substantial number of people to work in many areas of IT, electronics and communications, including software and hardware systems development, large networks and signal processing systems development, and project management. GCHQ works at the forefront of technology and we use the best that can be acquired or developed. We need people who want to get involved in new technologies and who are looking for a challenging and rewarding career. There is potential, following the assessment centre, for certain candidates to be recommended for higher positions. Most of our technologists help to provide the new equipment and systems required to further improve our operational capabilities. They are responsible for meeting operational requirements on time and to a budget. This demands rigorous analysis and careful planning followed by either in-house design, development and production of hardware and software or the technical management of contracts to provide complete systems. Some technologists carry out applied research to lead the way with the development of innovative solutions to new challenges whilst others are involved with communications and computer security. Here an imaginative approach is often necessary to understand new problems and test new concepts. Vacancies currently exist in the following areas:
IT AND SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT We have a variety of jobs requiring IT skills. GCHQ has a wide range of modern applications programs to support intelligence production. IT specialists advise analysts on the applications suitable for their particular project, develop the product if necessary, install and assist users to obtain the best from an application. GCHQ runs large networked time-critical systems, the operation of which requires detailed knowledge of modern computer-to-computer communications practices and their implementation. The management of these networks is a key responsibility for IT staff. Large database systems are vital to GCHQ operations and the development of these systems provides ample opportunity to challenge IT staff. This involves working on systems analysis, design or software support of large computer systems, high-speed networks, high performance workstations or database management systems; or on the acquisition of major IT systems, advanced computer technologies or new approaches to computer security. Listed below are just some of the things you could get involved with: Design and implementation of multimedia data processing, storage and retrieval systems. Timing the operating system of a Cray supercomputer to provide good interactive response and workload throughput. Design and implementation of the user interface to a relational database application using Graphical User Interface Builders and other fourth generation tools. Design of a forms-based approach to allow for fully automated processing of existing paper-driven systems. Investigation into how to protect computer systems and networks from hacking and other security threats. |
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ELECTRONICS AND COMMUNICATIONS This involves working on the design or engineering development of a wide range of communications systems including signal processors, antennas and receivers, point to point links and data networks; or on advanced DSP techniques or on LSI design and simulation using CAD facilities. Examples of some of the recent work carried out by our mainstream technologists include: Writing software in C++ to implement a new technique for analysing the harmonic content of signals. Using `block diagram' DSP algorithm development packages to produce digital filters, demodulators, test generators, etc. Making RF measurements to characterise transmitter performance. Designing and building a prototype circuit to phase lock to incoming signals with a high degree of accuracy. Giving technical presentations to visitors and on training courses run by GCHQ for external customers. There are a limited number of vacancies for both our technologist fast-track schemes. The Graduate Trainee Project Manager (GTPM) `fast-track' scheme is open to recent graduates or those currently in the final year of their degree. Trainees on the GTPM scheme are able to develop their own training programme, in agreement with their mentor, depending upon their experience and chosen career path. The scheme offers an individually planned period of training of up to 2 years providing a wide range of placements designed to develop the skills needed to manage the many and varied aspects of projects undertaken within GCHQ. Successful completion of the training programme leads to regrading to Project Manager, with opportunity to gain C Eng. Status. Project work at GCHQ covers a wide spectrum from programme management to `hands-on' research projects. Our Graduate Trainee (GT) fast-track scheme is open to recent graduates or those currently in the final year of their degree who wish to undertake a structural training programme for up to 2 years which concentrates on developing technical rather than management abilities. The GT programme structure is similar to that for GTPMs but places a greater emphasis on development of the student's knowledge and skills in his/her chosen field of applied technology. Like the GTPM scheme, the GT scheme offers an individually planned period of training of up to 2 years, successful completion of which leads to regrading to the next level and opportunity to gain C Eng. Status. The core of the training is sponsorship by a GCHQ branch to research a specified technological topic. This offers an opportunity for you to develop your: - understanding of complex technologies - technical creativity and innovative skills - skills in communicating technical ideas - ability to organise/manage a programme of technical work The GTPM & GT schemes are challenging and rewarding. Of particular appeal is the ability to work with a diverse range of modern technologies, and acquire a breadth of skills and knowledge. Both schemes are IEE and BCS accredited. |
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Qualifications and Experience Required We are looking for well-motivated people with a sound academic record, good analytical and organisational skills, and the ability to communicate well orally and on paper. You should be capable of working as a member of a team and have the potential to be an effective leader and an able manager of staff and other resources. You should have or expect to attain by the summer of 1999 either a first or second class honours degree (or equivalent) in an IT related or relevant engineering/scientific discipline (directly relevant subjects include Communications, Computing, Electronics, Electrical & Electronic engineering, Information Technology and Physics). or an MSc in one of the directly relevant subjects following on from a relevant technical degree. or a first or second class honours joint degree (or equivalent) which includes computing. or 4 years relevant experience, regardless of qualifications. HNC/HND (or equivalent) in a relevant IT/Communications related discipline with at least 2 years work experience will also be considered at a starting salary of between £15,903 and £19,956. You will need a minimum qualification of a second class honours degree upper division for consideration for either of the fast-track schemes. Continuing Personal Development GCHQ has a Continuing Personal Development (CPD) programme which is available to all staff. Under CPD you will agree your learning and development objectives together with your manager. You will also agree the best way to achieve them, whether it be through formal training courses, open or distance learning or on the job training. Wherever you work, you will need to learn new skills and keep up to date with new technologies in order to meet the challenges facing GCHQ. Career Opportunities One of the greatest attractions of working at GCHQ is that you are likely to become involved in a range of work which is unequalled for its diversity. You will therefore have the opportunity to gain invaluable experience across a range of applied technologies in the rapidly changing and advancing fields of IT and communications science. Some posts offer the opportunity of either short-term or long-term travel both within the UK and overseas.
Age Although there is no formal age limit, you will be expected to offer at least 5 years' service before the normal retirement age of 60.
Salary Prospects Starting salary will be in the range £15,903 to £22,080, dependent upon qualifications and any previous experience. Higher salaries may be available to those offered more senior positions. GCHQ operates a Performance Related Pay Scheme which enables you to move up the salary range quoted above at a rate dependent on your overall performance. Salary is paid in arrears by monthly transfer. Salary scales are reviewed annually in October.
Probation and Prospects Your performance, conduct and health will be regularly reviewed during the probation period, the duration of which will be 1 year for Mainstream Technologists and 2 years for GTPMs and GTs. Subject to your achieving a satisfactory standard over this period, your permanent appointment will be confirmed. |
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Non-Contributory Pension
Scheme
GCHQ personnel are members of the Principal Civil Service Pension Scheme (PCSPS). Generally regarded as a very good pension scheme, it is non-contributory and index-linked. The only contribution members make is 1.5% of salary (which qualifies for full tax relief) towards the cost of providing for their widow/widower. It may be possible for you to transfer previous pension rights into the PCSPS. You will need to apply in writing within 12 months of joining (or re-joining) the PCSPS. Further information and guidance on this subject is available on tel: 01242 221491 ext 6131 or 2690.
Working Hours You will normally work a 5-day week of 42 hours gross (37 hours net, including lunch breaks). A system of flexible working hours is in operation.
Annual Leave You will have an annual leave allowance of 4 weeks and 2 days rising to 5 weeks after one year and 6 weeks after 20 years service. You will also receive 10.5 days public and privilege holiday each year.
Relocation Expenses Relocation expenses may be payable after beginning your appointment with GCHQ. You should obtain the agreement of GCHQ before committing yourself to any expense. You will have to satisfy GCHQ that you have to move house to live within reasonable distance of your new place of work. If you resign within 2 years you will be asked to repay a proportion of the expenses advanced. Further details will be made available prior to you having to make a formal commitment. Members of staff at GCHQ are encouraged to belong to and play a full part in the trade union or staff association of their choice. Terms and conditions of service exclusive to GCHQ staff, including pay, will be negotiated periodically by the Government Communications Group (GCG) who have sole negotiating rights in such matters. Security, Nationality and Residency GCHQ is a Civil Service Department under the Ministerial responsibility of the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs; you will be eligible only if you meet the security, nationality and residence requirements detailed in the enclosed general information leaflet. Candidates will be subject to the security enquires also referred to in the leaflet.
The Selection Process To ensure inclusion for the initial paper sift of your preferred assessment centre please return your application form as follows: Assessment Centre Closing Date November 1998 29 October 1998 February 1999 8 January 1999 April 1999 12 March 1999 June 1999 7 May 1999 Applicants who are successful at the initial paper sift will be invited to an assessment centre, to be held in Cheltenham on the following dates: 16-19 November 1998 26-27 November 1998 8-19 February 1999 12-23 April 1999 7-11 June 1999 which will include competency-based and technical interviews, a group exercise and psychometric tests. Special arrangements can be made for people with disabilities. Accommodation is provided and travel expenses will be reimbursed. If you are successful you will be offered an appointment subject to satisfactory completion of enquiries into nationality, health, security, education and other matters. |
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GCHQ is committed to equal opportunities for all. Selection will be on the basis of ability, qualifications and fitness for the work. Applications are welcome from all qualified individuals irrespective of race, sex, sexual orientation or marital status. A guaranteed interview scheme is operated for disabled candidates.
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The Recruitment Office, Room A/1108, GCHQ, Priors Road, Cheltenham, Glos GL52 5AJ Telephone 01242 232912/3Fax 01242 260108 Email: recruitment.gchq@dial.pipex.com
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Government Communications
Headquarters
Information for Applicants ASSISTANT LIBRARIAN (GC10) REF: ALB/1/ 99 CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 12 MARCH 1999 |
You can apply to the address at the bottom of the page or email us for an application form at recruitment.gchq@dial.pipex.com. Alternatively you can print off an Application Form (PDF Format). |
The Location Government Communications Headquarters is located in the elegant town of Cheltenham, surrounded by the picturesque Cotswolds. Cheltenham has much to offer, hosting, for example, many different festivals throughout the year and its excellent geographical position means that the attractions of London, the Midlands and the South West are never far away. The work we do GCHQ itself is a unique place to work, not only because of the nature of our business but also because of the extremely skilled, professional and dedicated people who work here. Our business is essentially two-fold. We play a vital role in protecting the security of the nation's official and military communications and advising government and industry on communications and computer security. In addition we study a wide range of telecommunications and other electronic signals to provide Britain with crucial defence and foreign intelligence. Information and Library Services The Information and Library Services branch forms part of the Corporate Information Management Group which has a staff complement of 25 information specialists, some of which act as information consultants (eg on information retrieval, thesaurus construction, web management) in detached posts in other branches of the department, and 19 clerical and support staff. There are 2 libraries/information centres at GCHQ principally covering the subjects of current affairs, computing, mathematics, languages, telecommunications and electronics. Extensive use is made of electronic sources and electronic delivery methods over departmental networks, including an Intranet. The Library actively seeks ways of developing services to customers' desktops. This includes the provision of a CD-ROM network, a newswire-handling system and digital mapping. The library's housekeeping routines are carried out using Soutron C2 software. The library holds about 156,000 books and reports, 120,000 maps and subscribes to approximately 1,400 periodicals and annuals. More than 12,000 enquiries, 22,000 loans and 6,000 photocopy requests are handled every year. Provisional applications may normally be considered from candidates who hope to satisfy the above conditions within about 4 months of the closing date. If such a candidate is recommended for appointment the recommendation will be subject to meeting the requirements set out before taking up appointment. Possession of a 1st or 2nd class honours degree in any discipline would be an added advantage. Experience or knowledge of computer applications (especially the Internet) and a working knowledge of one or more foreign languages would also be advantageous. All posts require good communication and organisational skills to manage resources effectively and meet wide ranging information needs. Subject knowledge in the fields of communications, computing or current affairs would also be an advantage. Training and development Training programmes include an approved course for those wishing to apply for admission to the Register of Chartered members (Associateship) of the Library Association. There is also an active programme to encourage Continuous Professional Development. All librarians are eligible to apply for moves both within GCHQ and to other government departments on career development grounds. Age There is no age limit. However, candidates would be expected to offer at least 5 years' service before reaching the normal retirement age of 60. Security, Nationality and Residence GCHQ is under the Ministerial responsibility of the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs. You will be eligible only if you meet the security, nationality and residence requirements detailed in the enclosed General Information leaflet. All GCHQ posts are public service posts and are not open to other European Union nationals. Successful candidates will be subject to the security enquiries referred to in the leaflet. Probation The term `probation' refers to the period of time that new recruits to GCHQ spend in grade in order to ensure that they reach the required standard with regard to work performance, conduct and health. You will be on probation for a period of 1 year. Annual leave The annual leave allowance for an Assistant Librarian is 22 days, rising to 25 days after 1 year, 26 days after 10 years and 30 days after 20 years' total service. Additionally, there are 10.5 days fixed Public and Privilege holidays. Non-contributory pension Scheme GCHQ personnel are members of the principal Civil Service Pension Scheme which is non-contributory and index-linked. The only contribution members make is 1.5% of salary (which qualifies for full tax relief) towards the cost of providing for their widow/widower. The job description Applications are invited for at least 4 posts as Assistant Librarians at GCHQ. The appointments are permanent and pensionable. There are 18 Assistant Librarians engaged in a wide range of professional duties including enquiry work, on-line Internet and CD-ROM searching, current awareness services, SDI work, promotional and marketing activities, cataloguing, acquisitions and staff supervision of administrative grades. Assistant Librarian posts are interchangeable and frequent opportunities arise for a change of duties. The initial posting will be arranged, where possible, to take account of your aptitudes and preferences. You will have opportunities to take part in other professional activities. The Information and Library Services branch offers a busy, challenging team environment working to tight deadlines and to a high level of accuracy. Throughout, there is a commitment to the provision of quality services. Qualifications and experience Candidates for Assistant Librarian posts must either: a. Hold an approved degree, or postgraduate diploma, in Librarianship or Information Studies obtained in the UK and have had some practical experience of librarianship. OR b. Be a Chartered member of the Library Association; OR c. Be a Corporate member of the Institute of Information Scientists. If you hold overseas qualifications in librarianship you will be considered, provided that your qualifications are of equal standing to those mentioned above. Selection Paper Sift The first stage of the selection process will be a paper sift based on information provided in the application form, once general eligibility as outlined in the previous paragraph has been satisfied. You are therefore encouraged to complete the application form as thoroughly as possible. Interview Those who are successful at the sift stage will be invited to interviews which will last approximately 45 minutes and will be held between 26 and 29 April 1999 inclusively. Applicants should be aware that it will not be possible to conduct interviews outside this period. If you are successful you will be offered an appointment subject to satisfactory completion of enquiries into nationality, security, health and other matters. The offer cannot be confirmed until these enquiries have been satisfactorily completed. This will normally take between 3 and 4 months to complete. Salary GCHQ operates a system of performance-based pay. Individuals move through the pay ranges appropriate to their grade in accordance with their overall performance rating. The current salary for GC10 Assistant Librarians is in the range £16,728 to £20,991. Entry will normally be at the minimum of the scale but, on the recommendation of the Selection Board, a higher starting salary, up to the top of the range quoted above, may be authorised if you have qualifications or experience considered to be of value. Once in post, with above standard performance it is possible to rise eventually to £24,496. Hours You will normally work a 5-day week of 42 hours including lunch intervals of 1 hour (37 hours net). A system of flexible working hours in operation. Application Your completed application form should reach Box 138, Cheltenham, Glos, GL52 5UD by 12 March 1999 at the latest. Earlier receipt would be helpful. If you wish to have your application form acknowledged would you please write your name and full postal address on the acknowledgement card provided, affix an appropriate postage stamp and return the card with the completed form. The card will then be posted back to you. If you do not receive it within 10 days, please inform us. N.B. cards not bearing a postage stamp will not be returned. Equal opportunity GCHQ is an equal opportunity employer. Selection will be on the basis of ability, qualifications and fitness for the work. Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified individuals irrespective of race, colour, ethnic origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation or disability.
GCHQ RECRUITMENT OFFICE
Room A/1108, Tel: 01242 232912/3 Fax: 01242 260108 E-mail: recruitment.gchq@dial.pipex.com
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http://www.gchq.gov.uk/textversion/rules.html
The following rules relate to a candidate applying for employment at GCHQ or the JTLS. Please read them carefully to ensure that you comply with them.
A. You must be a British citizen (but see Note 1).
B. One of your parents must be a British citizen or have substantial ties with the United Kingdom or, if deceased, have had such citizenship or ties before death. (See Note 2).
Note 1: If you hold dual nationality, of which one component is British, you will nonetheless be considered. If successful, you will normally be required to give up your non-British nationality as a condition of your confirmation of appointment to GCHQ or the JTLS.
Note 2: For this purpose a person has "substantial ties" if:
a. that person holds citizenship of a British Dependent Territory, is a British Overseas citizen, holds citizenship of the Commonwealth, holds the status of a British protected person, holds the status of a British National Overseas, holds EEA nationality, or citizenship of the United States of America and:
b. has a demonstrable connection with the United Kingdom by way of family history or period of residence in, or other service to, the United Kingdom.
General Guidance on spouses and cohabitees: A candidate married to or living with a person who is not a British citizen remains eligible for employment at the discretion of the department. Candidates should note that marriage to, or co-habitation with a person who is not a British citizen after appointment may in some circumstances result in withdrawal of security clearance and transfer to another Department, or (if this is not possible or the officer does not wish to transfer) dismissal. Each case will be considered on its merits, taking into account the ties between the person involved and the United Kingdom.
Candidates for employment at GCHQ or the JTLS must normally have been resident
in the UK for 10 years prior to the date of their application. You may
nonetheless be considered if (for example):
In such cases, you must be able to provide referee cover for the period(s) of residence overseas.
The duration of your residence overseas and the country in which you lived will also be relevant.
The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs may at his discretion waive any of the nationality and residence rules set out above.