Secret radio conversations between security guards minding royals and government ministers are being intercepted and posted on the internet by an amateur enthusiast, the BBC claimed today.

Internet news groups have carried details of the radio frequencies used by Britain's security services, and individuals' call signs. Foreign heads of state have also been targeted during visits to London.

Experts believe that criminals have already accessed the information to foil police operations in the capital, and there are fears that terrorists could also benefit from the security breach.

An investigation by Radio 4's Today programme found that a radio scanning enthusiast in the Home Counties - who was arrested and had his equipment confiscated a decade ago for listening in to Special Branch communications - was back in business. The authorities here have no power to shut the internet sites because they are based in America.

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