Blears: Extremely concerning if Abu Qatada walks free

Tuesday, 7 February 2012 12:15 PM

Former counter-terrorism and security minister Hazel Blears defended control orders on the Today programme, after a judge awards radical cleric Abu Qatada bail:

"This is a problem that faces us relating to a handful of people in this country including Abu Qatada whereby you've got intelligence but not evidence that can be used in a criminal trial.

"Therefore the proceedings under control orders, for example, which have closed hearings and a lot of judicial oversight, and the person is told the basis on which they're being held.

"This is a controversial procedure and it's counter to everything we hold dear, but actually you're left with very little option.

"You either allow people to walk free, as Abu Qatada will be doing in the next few days, or you can prosecute if you've got evidence that can be used in open court, but if you haven't, you've got to look at things like control orders or deportation.

"What I wish the judge would have considered is saying: 'If, in three months time, those negotiations with Jordan are not bearing fruit, then I am going to consider giving him bail.' I think that would have put more pressure on the system."
 

Tags:
• abu qatada
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• hazel blears
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• human rights