James Bond test offered to wannabe spies

September 29, 2009

Anyone who reckons they could be the next James Bond is being invited to complete a light-hearted quiz on the website of MI6, also known as the Secret Intelligence Service (SIS).

Would-be spies are asked a selection of questions to test their memories, with the results of the James Bond-style brainteaser revealing them as either "00" or "more 'Oh no'".

“Maintaining a cover story is part of being an Operational Officer," the organisation explains on the site.

Referring to the quiz, it continues: "It's mainly for fun but it may help you decide whether working for SIS appeals to you."

Among the careers on offer at MI6 are language specialists, administrative assistants and technology experts - the real-life equivalent of James Bond's 'Q'.

The quiz - featuring a warning to readers not to tell anyone they have seen it - forms part of a recruitment drive by the agency, which has previously acknowledged the boost that 007 provided.

Chatting to the BBC in July, former SIS boss Sir Colin McColl said James Bond "spreads the brand".

"Everybody watches Bond, so why shouldn't a little bit of Bond rub off on our reputation?" he added.