The threat from international terrorism is real and severe. It shows no sign of diminishing. The director general of the security service said recently that the police and security agencies are currently dealing with some 30 known plots and more than 200 groupings or networks, totalling about 2,000 individuals. As we have seen, the terrorist threat is aimed at causing mass casualties with no warning, and with no limits on method – including the use of suicide attacks.
As well as monitoring a wide range of threats, I believe the police and security service have a duty to intervene early to protect the public at a point when there may not be much evidence against suspects. This means that more work needs to be done after suspects are arrested in terrorist investigations than is the case with other crimes.
Recent terrorist cases have confirmed that operations are growing in complexity and scale – in terms of material seized, use of false identities, multiple languages and dialects and international links. The amount of evidence to be sifted during terrorist investigations has been growing and there is greater use of encrypted computers and multiple mobile phones, in part as terrorists seek to use multiple media to cover their tracks.
The Counter-Terrorism Bill brings forward measures to address the threat we face from terrorism. There is a wide consensus of support for many of the Bill’s provisions, including enhanced information sharing, tougher sentencing for terrorists, seizure of terrorist assets, and post-charge questioning of terrorist suspects. Our proposals also include the option to extend the period that a terrorist suspect can be detained before a charge is laid beyond the current maximum of 28 days. We have made it clear any extension beyond 28 days would be used only in exceptional circumstances, it will be subject to a judge overseeing the reasons for detention and subject to a maximum of 42 days.
I will not take risks with the security of people in this country and want people to know that. In return, I’d be grateful if readers would let me know their thoughts on this. Send an e-mail: fosterm@ parliament.uk or drop me a note.