Less free and less safe

14 June 2007 / Jago Russell

Issue: 7277 / Categories: Opinion , Human rights

The Bush-Blair “war on terror” has left us with a raft of bad laws, says Jago Russell

With just a few days to go before Prime Minister Tony Blair and Home Secretary John Reid step down, are there any signs that Gordon Brown may drop the political machismo that has characterised talk on terror? One thing is certain: Home Office ministers, the Home Secretary and Brown have been falling over each other in the rush for headlines on terrorism.

The latest flurry of counter-terror proposals started over the last May Bank Holiday when Home Office Minister Tony McNulty mooted the idea of new “stop and question” laws. The proposal to fine people £5,000 if they refuse to identify themselves to the police or to answer questions caused a public outcry. The government was warned that this could be as damaging to community relations as the old “sus” laws. Thankfully, after a Cabinet revolt, the proposals were withdrawn.

But the tough talk didn’t end there. Five days before the Home Secretary was due

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Less free and less safe

The Bush-Blair “war on terror” has left us with a raft of bad laws, says Jago Russell

But the tough talk didn’t end there. Five days before the Home Secretary was due

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content

If you are already a subscriber sign in

...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

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Less free and less safe

MOVERS & SHAKERS

DWF—19 appointments

Cadwalader—Andro Atlaga

Knights—Ella Dodgson & Rebecca Laffan