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New Anti-Terror Laws
In the last week, the British parliament has instituted new anti-terrorism laws which significantly increase the power available to the Home Secretary, the Minister responsible for internal security.
Opponents of the new bill see it as a threat to basic human rights and to the principles of Magma Carter, the document on which much of English law is based.
After a marathon session involving both houses of government, a compromise was reached between the government, the opposition parties and the House of Lords.
Whilst the final bill gives the Minister less power than originally intended, it still allows him to operate above the judiciary in placing terrorism suspects under house arrest without trial.
Social commentator Mal Fletcher says that new laws relating to security should be based upon the needs of those they intend to protect rather than simply a reaction to the perpetrators of crime.
'We need to be vigilant against terrorism, without doubt,' he said, 'but we also need to watch that governments do not take opportunity to increase their powers beyond reasonable democratic limits.'
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(For the full editorial on this site, click here.)
Keywords: terrorism | anti-terrorism | laws | Magna Carta | House of Commons | British Parliament | human rights | Home Secretary | anti-terrorism laws | comment | social comment
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As a local youth pastor and high school chaplain, I am constantly looking for resources and articles that ask prophetic questions and give Christ-centred answers. Your stuff hits the mark every time.
Rob, Australia
Thanks for your visit to St. Louis & the thoughtful messages you brought. I am challenged to be a city on a hill, and to not be hidden.
Perhaps on your next visit, you could join in the push-up contest or drive the motorcycle. Best wishes for continued success.
John, United States
Mal, a massive thanks from a baby boomer & a gen-Xer who had the priviledge of being inspired by you at the ALC Leadership Academy. You have really helped make sense of the world that we are seeking to influence...
Nigel & Christine, United Kingdom
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