What is the Name of Britain's Domestic Intelligence Agency?

Britain's domestic intelligence agency is the Security Service, more commonly known as MI5. It works alongside the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and other security and intelligence operations.

History

The Security Service was founded in 1909, during the buildup to World War I. At this time, it was headed up by Captain Vernon Kell, who remained at this position until the early years of World War II.

Function

The Security Service protects Britain's parliament, economic interests and the British people from terrorism, espionage and other threats to security. To do this fully, it works alongside MI6, the Government Communications Headquarters and the Defence Intelligence Staff.

Geography

The Security Service's headquarters have been at Thames House in London since 1995. Nine smaller offices exist throughout the UK, including Northern Ireland and Glasgow.

Fun Fact

"MI5" was the Security Service's official name for only 13 years -- from 1916 to 1929. It is still referred to by this name today and, to acknowledge this history, MI5 appears on the official website of the Security Service.

References

• The Security Service (MI5): UK Home Page