New offences plan to combat terror threat

The Government is considering the introduction of new terrorist and criminal offences to combat the threat from al-Qa’ida and other extremists, it was confirmed today. Home Secretary David Blunkett said his controversial internment powers will remain an “essential component” of the Government’s anti-terrorism measures. But extending similar powers to British citizens would be a grave step that would be “difficult to justify”. Ministers were “willing to consider any realistic alternative proposals and approaches which take account of the Government’s human rights obligations”, a discussion paper said. It went on: “There are already a wide range of criminal and terrorist-related offences that can be used to bring prosecutions. The Government is considering whether further offences should be introduced.” Full Story