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Proceeding contribution from Lord Lester of Herne Hill (Liberal Democrat) in the House of Lords on Tuesday, 21 October 2008. It occurred during Committee of the Whole House (HL) and Debate on bill on Counter-Terrorism Bill.


Counter-Terrorism Bill

I am about to say something extremely unpopular, but I think that I need to say it. It would be better if the Minister gave his speech, for the reason that we are not a club—well, not only a club—and it is quite important for it to go on the record so that those who cannot be here have the benefit of looking at it. I am sorry that I have to say that, but, since the Minister and his officials have taken the trouble to produce full answers, it is better that we hear them. Among the choice of evils, I am in favour of the control order regime. I fully understand, as I think does the Committee, the problems about closed hearings, public interest immunity, the need for secrecy and the special advocate procedure. We are not just taking an irresponsible position, which I know the Minister appreciates. However, I should be grateful if he would respond. Obviously, any Member of the Committee is free to leave during his response, but I will listen with great interest.


Secondary information

Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
704 c1090 
Session
2007-08
Chamber / Committee
House of Lords chamber
Subjects
Disclosure of information Armed forces Assets Coroners Juries Evidence Intelligence services Human rights Genocide National security Powers of entry Racially aggravated offences Terrorism Surveillance Religion Trials Right of search Anti-terrorism control orders Freezing of assets
Legislation
Counter-terrorism Bill 2007-08
Link
View this Proceeding contribution on www.publications.parliament.uk