Civil Servants

[Dusty Bin]

Why do civil servants on quiz shows not reveal more about their jobs? What DO they do?

[theprof]

THECORBYLOON, I'd be the first to agree that not every civil servant is subject to the control of the OSA. However, those that do sign acceptance of the act do fall under its control. There are a surprising number of them about and they include people who don't necessarily work for MI5/MI6.

I've worked alongside scientists from DEFRA, the MRC and other government organisations who have signed the act. Many staff in government agencies are also subject to the act for reasons not necessarily to do with information security.

Besides, in this day and age, the OSA is not the only restriction in preventing a civil servant from disclosing information on their role within an organisation. You only have to look at a Civil Service employment contract to come to this conclusion.

[vulcan42]

jno, I got my passport in the early sixties and the first item on the personal information page was occupation. This may have all changed on the more recent issues of course.

[bhg481]

I've just looked at my current passport and occupation is no longer stated on it. It certainly used to be, as my early ones had "Government Employee", or words to that effect.

[bednobs]

oh ere you a spy bhg?

[bhg481]

If I told you I'd have to kill you but it's OK, I'm retired now.

[barmy]

On a similar topic all civil servants are told to take of their security passes when outside the buildings to avoid being a target.

[bednobs]

jut wondered if you worked in that place near you. :)