Home > Mary Evans Prints Online > New Images August 2021
Ethel Gee, Portland Spy Ring
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Ethel Gee, Portland Spy Ring
Ethel Elizabeth (Bunty) Gee (1914-1984), member of the Portland Spy Ring, arrested in 1961 and sentenced to 15 years in prison. Date: 1961
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 23215244
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1961 Bunty Ethel May19 Portland Ring Spies Spying Trials Elizabeth
EDITORS COMMENTS
This striking photograph captures Ethel Elizabeth Gee, also known as 'Bunty,' during her trial in May 1961. Ethel, born in 1914, was a key member of the Portland Spy Ring, a group of British citizens who were accused and later convicted of passing classified information to the Soviet Union. The Portland Spy Ring was one of the last major espionage cases to come to light during the Cold War era. Ethel Gee, a former civil servant, was arrested in February 1961, along with her husband, William John Gee, and three others, Gerald Brooks, Vera Leigh, and John Vassall. The group had been supplying the Soviet Union with sensitive information for several years, including details about the development of the Polaris nuclear missile program. The trial of the Portland Spy Ring was a major news event in the UK during the early 1960s. The defendants were charged under the Official Secrets Act and faced the possibility of long prison sentences. Ethel Gee was sentenced to fifteen years in prison, while her husband received a life sentence. The other defendants also received significant prison terms. The Portland Spy Ring case was a reminder of the ongoing threat of Soviet espionage and the importance of national security. It also highlighted the personal and emotional toll that such cases could take on individuals and their families. This photograph, taken during the trial, offers a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Cold War history and the human drama that unfolded behind the headlines.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
