MI5

MI5, the secret government organisation often considered essential in wartime but controversial in peacetime, originated before the First World War, when German spy-mania was all the rage, and continued through all of the 20th century. Today it faces an uncertain future and a more uncertain enemy. Its officers and assets have included the occasional genius, traitors and patriots, 'decent types' and fools - the inspired and the deluded. Are they the guardians of democracy or a menace to it? Now readers can decide for themselves with this concise book.