The “MI5: Official Secrets” exhibition reveals unseen MI5 artefacts, including Guy Burgess’s briefcase and a lemon used as invisible ink by a German spy. It marks MI5’s first public collaboration, highlighting the agency’s transparency commitment. The exhibition runs from April 5 to September 28, 2023, at The National Archives in Kew, London, with free admission.
A new exhibition titled “MI5: Official Secrets” at The National Archives in Kew showcases never-before-seen artefacts from MI5. One significant item is the briefcase left behind by Cambridge spy Guy Burgess as he escaped to Moscow in 1951, along with his British passport on display for the first time. This exhibition marks MI5’s first collaboration in publicly displaying its files, emphasising its commitment to transparency.
Among other notable items is a 110-year-old lemon, which was used by German spy Karl Muller for invisible ink to relay British military information. The lemon was discovered in his overcoat when arrested, leading to his execution in 1915. The exhibition also features a note about the Queen being informed of Soviet agent Anthony Blunt’s activities, highlighting the intelligence agency’s historic interactions.
MI5 Director General Sir Ken McCallum discussed the aim of the exhibition, stating it provides insight into the realities of intelligence work, contrasting fiction with truth. He stressed that the public’s trust is reinforced when MI5 is transparent about both successes and failures. The exhibition celebrates the extraordinary efforts of ordinary people in safeguarding the nation.
The exhibition includes various items from MI5’s history, dating from its inception in 1909 to recent artefacts, such as a PIRA mortar bomb and a bomb reconstructed from an instant camera. Historian Mark Dunton noted public fascination with espionage, leading to the exhibition’s development in collaboration with MI5. Running from April 5 to September 28, admission is free, inviting the public to explore espionage history.
The “MI5: Official Secrets” exhibition at The National Archives sheds light on the intelligence agency’s history while promoting transparency. Key highlights include artifacts from notable spies and items relating to significant historical events, revealing both the triumphs and challenges of MI5’s work. Sir Ken McCallum’s insights emphasise the importance of public trust as the agency showcases its storied past.
Original Source: www.heraldscotland.com