15 November 2006

Law Society

http://www.lawsociety.org.uk

Extension of Police Powers

No case for extension of powers

The Law Society is concerned that the Government remains determined to extend powers of detention, without charge, in terrorism cases, without making a clear case for it. 

In the Queen£s Speech today, the Government outlined its plans for a Counter Terrorism Bill.

Des Hudson, Law Society Chief Executive, says:

"Any increase to the time limit that terrorism suspects can be detained without charge would be a significant step.  It could lead to people being locked up for months despite the police having no real evidence against them.  We hope that any decisions reached by Parliament on this issue will be based on an objective and evidence- based assessment of the need for an extension of powers."

The Society has long advocated that intercept evidence should be admissible in order to aid the prosecution of alleged terrorists.  £Such evidence is admissible in most common law jurisdictions and we see no good reason for the prohibition here£ says Des Hudson.

The Law Society also has serious concerns about politicians being able to impose tagging and curfew orders.  £Current legislation allowing politicians to impose control orders shows fundamental disregard for the rule of law£, says Des Hudson, Law Society Chief Executive, £Any such orders should only be made by a High Court Judge£.

cris Jobs Now Pharma Business Counsel We have some exciting openings within the legal team to support our ever growing business, in Hertfordshire. More >> Employment Solicitor You will act for a broad range of existing clients with a particular emphasis on clients in the education and public sectors, Newcastle. More >> Restructuring Partner and is looking to recruit an additional partner to work on high profile and complex restructuring matters, in the City. More >> Head of Marketing We are looking to recruit an experienced marketing manager to deliver the firm's marketing strategy, London. More >> Senior Litigation Executives To work as part of the Legal team, managing a caseload, Yorkshire. More >>

Legalday Related Pages

Contact

Law Society
113 Chancery Lane
WC2A 1PL
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7242 1222
Info.services@lawsociety.org.uk
http://www.lawsociety.org.uk

More Commentaries From
Law Society

Law Society to offer compensation advances to miners
12 July 2007

Law Society News: Poles not playing fair on free markets
09 July 2007

Law Society launches Anti Money Laundering directory
19 June 2007

More Commentaries from
Law Society

Author/Firm Profile
Law Society