LONDON
UK has appointed a new head to the Government Communications Headquarters, the UK’s electronic surveillance agency.
Robert Hannigan will succeed Sir Iain Lobban, who served as head of the organisation since 2008. Foreign Secretary William Hague announced the appointment today.
Hannigan served Director General for Defence and Intelligence at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office since 2010. He will take over from Sir Iain Lobban when the latter leaves service in the autumn. Lobban joined the Government Communications Headquarters, also known as GCHQ, in 1983, becoming director in June 2008.
Foreign Secretary William Hague said he was delighted at the appointment. He added, “GCHQ’s world-class work is vital to the safety and security of the United Kingdom. As well as his impressive personal qualities, Robert brings to the job a wealth of relevant experience in the fields of national security, counter-terrorism and international relations.”
Robert Hannigan, commenting on his appointment, said: “It is a privilege to be asked to lead GCHQ, an organisation which is so central to keeping the people of this country safe. I have great respect for the integrity and professionalism of the staff of GCHQ and for what they have achieved under the outstanding leadership of Iain Lobban. I am excited about meeting the challenges of the coming years with them.”
The UK’s communications intelligence branch dates back to WWI, but the Government Communications Headquarters was officially named and established after the second world war. The agency came under pressure to be more open after leaks by Mr Snowden revealed widespread spying by both the GCHQ and the US National Security Agency.
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