New terrorism powers - the key points
Evening Standard Staff13 April 2012
The new powers suggested to counter the terror threat include:
- One thousand extra spies will boost MI5's ability to counter terrorists - with Arabic speakers among those being recruited.
- No change in the right to trial by jury and the burden of proof for criminals but there will be tougher conspiracy laws to lock up terrorist cells.
- Detention without trial for suspected foreign terrorists will continue because it is a vital tool in the armoury against al Qaeda.
- Civil liberties have to be balanced with national security - but some rights, including the presumption of innocence, will remain " nonnegotiable".
