Probe calls UK intelligence's collection of 'snooping data' legal

The Intelligence and Security Committee (ISC) has reportedly declared that UK's data-gathering centre GCHQ did not illegally collect citizens' personal data through the alleged US 'snoop-op' Prism.

According to the BBC, the GCHQ has been accused of flouting the laws while collecting the user data of UK citizens. However, the ISC reviewed the GCHQ reports and said that any intelligence sought had 'conformed with GCHQ's statutory duties' and did not break any laws.

The ISC investigated in detail about the GCHQ's procedure of data collection including a list of counter-terrorist operations for which the UK was able to obtain intelligence from the US.

The ISC, chaired by former foreign secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind said that the legal authority for collecting data is contained in the Intelligence Services Act 1994 and added that in each case where GCHQ sought information from the US, a warrant for interception, signed by a minister, was 'already in place'.

Foreign Secretary William Hague welcomed the committee's findings and said that the findings are further testament to the professionalism and values of GCHQ members and added that the agency will continue to have the full co-operation of the government and the security and intelligence agencies, the report added.