The new BBC Two series True Spies reveals how the British Secret State has been spying on its citizens for decades.

How much do you know about the secret world of MI5 and Special Branch? Find out by taking our quiz now...

When was MI5, initially known as the Secret Service Bureau, formed?

A: 1906 B: 1909 C: 1915

What is the difference between MI5 and MI6?

A: MI5 monitors UK security threats and MI6 monitors overseas security threats B: MI5 gathers intelligence for MI6 C: MI5 employs spies but MI6 does not

What was the Metropolitan Police Special Branch initially formed to do?

A: Secretly track down German spies in the early nineteenth century B: Secretly gather intelligence on anti-war demonstrations in 1914 C: Secretly deal with nineteenth century Irish terrorists

What is MI5 officially known as?

A: The Security Service B: The Special Service C: The Intelligence Service

Does MI5 have the power to arrest people?

A: No B: Yes C: Sometimes

How many staff does MI5 have now?

A: 1900 B: 3600 C: 7249

How are Special Branch and MI5 agents paid?

A: By cheque B: Secret bankers order C: In cash

Who does MI5 answer to?

A: The UK Prime Minister B: Intelligence and Security Commons Select Committee C: The UK Home Secretary

Who wrote the book “Spycatcher”?

A: Peter Wright B: Sir Roger Hollis C: Stella Rimington

Which of the following statements are true?

A: No member of the public is permitted to see classified MI5 files B: Individuals have a right to see what information MI5 has collated about them C: You can automatically view all files after a 5 year period

Which govt minister was spied upon by the Secret State while leading an anti-apartheid campaign in 1970?

A: Jack Straw B: Peter Hain C: Patricia Hewitt

What year did lead responsibility for countering IRA operations on the UK mainland pass from Met Police Special Branch to MI5?

A: 1984 B: 1992 C: 1997

Who was in charge of countering industrial subversion at MI5 during the 1984-5 miners strike?

A: Stella Rimington B: Robert Armstrong C: George Smiley

What organisation was set up to co-ordinate the police response to animal rights violence?

A: Animal Rights National Index B: National Criminal Intelligence Service (NCIS) C: National Crime Squad