Liberal Democrats seek major concessions on Terrorism Bill

4.14.03pm UTC (GMT +0000) Thu 3rd Nov 2005

MPs won concessions from Home Secretary Charles Clarke during committee stage yesterday evening. Mr Clarke caved in to huge opposition to his plans to hold people without charge for 90 days by promising all-party talks next week on a substantially reduced period of detention. The offer came as ministers saw their majority cut to one in a vote on an amendment requiring the courts to prove 'intent' before finding somebody guilty of encouraging terrorism. This was the government's closest shave since Tony Blair was elected as prime minister.

Mark Oaten MP, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, said "After scraping home by one vote it is clear that the Government's terrorism legislation can't continue unless there are major concessions. It is evident that the Terrorism Bill does not have the confidence or support of the House of Commons. The Liberal Democrats have agreed to take part in fresh talks to see if a consensus can be reached. Our aim will be to resist excessive extensions over fourteen days and ensure checks and balances that will protect the principles of justice. We call on the Home Secretary to act now to amend this illiberal and dangerous piece of legislation."