Counter-terrorism review promises restoration of civil liberties
Tuesday, 13 July 2010 5:00 PM
By Ian Dunt
The government has launched its review into Britain's counter-terrorism laws, in a move activists are calling a "once in a generation" opportunity to restore Britain's civil liberties.
Home secretary confirmed the long-awaited review had already begun, and said it would look at six areas: the use of control orders, stop and search powers in section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000 and the use of terrorism legislation in relation to photography, the detention of terrorist suspects before charge, extending the use of deportations, measures to deal with organisations that promote hatred or violence, and the use of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (Ripa) by local authorities.
"National security is the first duty of government but we are also committed to reversing the substantial erosion of civil liberties," Ms May said.
"I want a counter-terrorism regime that is proportionate, focused and transparent. We must ensure that in protecting public safety, the powers which we need to deal with terrorism are in keeping with Britain's traditions of freedom and fairness."
Lord Ken Macdonald QC provide independent oversight of the review. He has been credited with securing several convictions in high-profile terror cases and is well respected by both national security experts and civil liberties advocates.
He is also praised with having professionalised the conduct of terror cases.
"No one underestimates the terrorism threat and everyone wants to see a country united, safe and free," said Liberty director Shami Chakrabarti.
"Liberty welcomes this once in a generation opportunity to reform counter-terror measures and bring them within the rule of law. We intend to do everything within our power to ensure that the government does not waste it."
The Lib Dems, whose decision to enter into a coalition agreement with the Conservatives was dependent on a commitment to restoring Britain's civil liberties, celebrated the decision.
"Under the Labour government, hard won rights and liberties that have been a fundamental part of British life for centuries were eroded or simply cast aside," said Tom Brake, co-chair of the Liberal Democrat parliamentary committee for home affairs.
"The Liberal Democrats have campaigned for years to give citizens back their freedoms, including scrapping control orders and reducing detention without charge. This review will be a big step towards realising these aims and making Britain a fairer country."
Responding to Ms May's statement in the Commons, shadow home secretary Alanb Johnson reminded Lib Dem MPs of John Stuart Mill's maxim: "All that makes existence valuable to everyone depends on the enforcement of restrictions upon the actions of other people."
The review will report back in the autumn.
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