The ‘MI5: Official Secrets’ exhibition at The National Archives features never-before-seen artefacts from MI5, including Guy Burgess’s briefcase and Karl Muller’s lemon used as invisible ink. Director General Sir Ken McCallum highlights MI5’s commitment to transparency as part of the exhibition, which runs from April 5 to September 28, with free admission.
A new exhibition at The National Archives in Kew showcases previously unseen MI5 artefacts, including a briefcase left by Cambridge spy Guy Burgess in 1951 as he fled to Moscow. Titled “MI5: Official Secrets,” this marks MI5’s first collaboration to present its files to the public, alongside declassified documents. Director General Sir Ken McCallum stated this effort demonstrates MI5’s commitment to transparency.
Highlights of the exhibition feature Burgess’s leather briefcase and British passport, marking the first time these items are on display. Burgess, part of the notorious Cambridge Five spy ring, fled with fellow spy Donald Maclean, escaping prosecution. Another significant artifact is a 110-year-old lemon, used as invisible ink by German spy Karl Muller to report British troop movements. Muller was executed at the Tower of London in 1915.
During a preview, Sir Ken McCallum shared insights on MI5’s work, emphasizing its focus on human efforts in safeguarding the country. He highlighted that public trust is fostered by being open about their challenges and failures. The exhibition also features a note concerning Queen Elizabeth II’s response to the identification of her art advisor, Anthony Blunt, as a Soviet agent.
In total, 20 items were loaned for the display, ranging from MI5’s first camera to modern artefacts like a mortar bomb from the Provisional Irish Republican Army. Curator Mark Dunton noted the public’s interest in espionage played a role in bringing the exhibition to life, praising MI5’s approach to openness. The exhibition runs from April 5 to September 28, with free admission available.
The “MI5: Official Secrets” exhibition offers a unique glimpse into the agency’s history and operations, featuring significant artefacts like Guy Burgess’s briefcase and Karl Muller’s lemon. Sir Ken McCallum’s remarks underline MI5’s commitment to transparency and public trust. As MI5 continues to share insights into its secretive world, this exhibition invites the public to engage with espionage history.
Original Source: www.theargus.co.uk