MI5 on a recruitment drive for new agents

12-Oct-2002 • Event

The Government`s security service is recruiting staff to help trap terrorists operating in the UK.

However, those expecting to lead a glamorous James Bond-style existence may be in for a rude awakening as they are unlikely to be able to afford it on a starting salary of Â£30,000.

The position begins with a year of intense training in an MI5 safe house, during which the new recruits will be given self-defence lessons.

Gadget-ridden Aston Martins are out of the question, although trainee spies can expect to get to grips with the very latest hi-tech surveillance equipment.

MI5`s new boss is eager to recruit new staff from all walks of life, not just Oxford and Cambridge graduates.

Candidates for the new positions will be expected to have a reasonable education, although a degree is not necessary.

Eliza Manningham-Buller, who has just taken over as head of MI5, is also keen to recruit more ethnic minorities to the organisation as only four per cent of the current staff are black or Asian.

A spokesperson for MI5 said: "We want to reflect the make-up and diversity of society."

Click here for the official MI5 website.

Thanks to `Xenia` for the alert.