Skip to main content

Proceeding contribution from Lord Dholakia (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Lords on Thursday, 15 March 2007. It occurred during Debates on delegated legislation on Schedule 5 to the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 (Modification) Order 2007.


Schedule 5 to the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 (Modification) Order 2007

My Lords, I thank the Minister for explaining the need for these two orders. We support both of them. Matters affecting the security of our country can never be taken lightly. Almost daily, we see on our monitor the level of security risk not only in Parliament but across the country as well. We must therefore do everything possible to ensure that such risks are reduced to a minimum. There is obviously no such thing as total security, but we will fail in our duty if we do not take account of advice offered to us by experts. I endorse what the noble Lord, Lord Kingsland, said. It is frightening to think that our own citizens are involved in harming our country. I need to askthe Minister three questions. The first is based on the explanation that was given by Mr McNulty in the other place. He said: "““I am aware that, in this area, as in so many others associated with terrorism, we need to balance the protection of the public against placing undue burdens on industry””.—[Official Report, Commons, First Delegated Legislation Committee, 26/2/07;col. 5.]" What discussions have taken place with industry on this matter? Secondly, what areas of legitimate use of pathogens will be affected by the attempt to clamp down on those who may want to use them illegitimately? It would be helpful to have some explanation from the Minister on that point. Thirdly, to what degree are the Government listening to advice and recommendations on trying to ensure that the maximum possible number of harmful chemicals will be banned from wide use with the minimum impact on those who have legitimate reasons for holding those chemicals?


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
690 c918 
Session
2006-07
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
Subjects
Chemical weapons Biological weapons Infectious diseases Livestock Terrorism Security
Legislation
Part 7 of the Anti-terrorism Crime and Security Act 2001 (Extension to Animal Pathogens) Order 2007
Schedule 5 to the Anti-terrorism Crime and Security Act 2001 (Modificiation) Order 2007
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk