Finland Times

 

File Photo – Lehtikuva.

Intelligence on foreign military targets is not unconstitutional, according to the Ministry of Transport and Communications.

 

Ministry of Transport and Communications Permanent Secretary Harri Pursiainen believes military intelligence is justified.

 

Pursiainen said Defence Minister Jussi Niinistö agrees with the Ministry of Transport and Communications’ view on this matter.

 

“I am sure a constitutional academic can be found who disagrees with that too. But for us there is a view that foreign military targets do enjoy the protection of the Finnish constitution,” Pursiainen told the news agency STT.

 

The permanent secretary said the position of the officials at the ministry has been consistent throughout all the times. The ministry’s requirements for further clarification apply only to public networks.

 

“We want to examine whether all communications should be subject to supervision. Now it is very good that its alternatives are also examined. If the constitution has to be amended because of intelligence, it will likely extend over the electoral term. I personally think the military needs are justified. The schedule is worryingly time consuming if it requires five years of waiting,” said Pursiainen.