Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism

Part of the debate – in the House of Commons at 3:54 pm on 9 March 1994.

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Photo of Michael Howard Michael Howard The Secretary of State for the Home Department 3:54, 9 March 1994

That is the truth of the matter, and for the hon. Gentleman, from a sedentary position, to describe those points as cheap is nothing short of disgraceful.

The powers were needed when the legislation was introduced by Lord Jenkins in 1974. From 1974 to 1980 they were supported by the Labour party. Since 1983 it has opposed them.

The chairman of the terrorism committee of the Association of Chief Police Officers has made it clear to me—perhaps Opposition Members will listen—that the retention of the Act in its present form is an essential weapon in the armoury of counter terrorism. No party that is prepared to deny that essential weapon to the brave police officers who have to confront the evil men at whom the powers are aimed is remotely fit to govern this country. Conservatives are committed to their maintenance for so long as the need for them continues. I commend the order to the House.