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 A picture of Vladimir Petrov and his wife. Petrov was a key testifier in the commission | |
| Date | April 13, 1954 – August 22, 1955 |
|---|---|
| Location | Albert Hall, Canberra |
| Also known as | Petrov Affair |
| Cause | Petrov's defection from the Soviet Union |
| First reporter | Vladimir Petrov |
| Participants |
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| Outcome | No prosecutions, expulsion of the Soviet Embassy |
| Inquiries | Royal Commission into espionage committed by the Soviet Union |
The Royal Commission on Espionage was a royal commission established on 13 April 1954 by the Australian government pursuant to the Royal Commissions Act 1902 to inquire into and report on Soviet espionage in Australia. The establishment of the commission followed the defection of Soviet diplomat Vladimir Petrov (the "Petrov Affair").[1] Officially titled Third Secretary of the Soviet Embassy in Canberra, it was revealed that Petrov was in fact a lieutenant colonel in the KGB and in charge of espionage in Australia.[2]
- ^ "Soviet Spy Ring Directed from Canberra — Mr. Menzies". Argus (Melbourne, Vic. : 1848 - 1957). 14 April 1954. p. 1. Retrieved 20 July 2019 – via Trove.
- ^ "The Royal Commission on Espionage, 1954–55". naa.gov.au. National Archives of Australia. Retrieved 15 August 2021.