Summary
This independent report reviews the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001, emergency legislation passed in response to the international terrorist threat highlighted by the events of 11 September 2001. The Committee's conclusions are based on two key principles of an individual's right to liberty and privacy; and the need for public protection from terrorism. Conclusions drawn include that special counter-terrorism legislation should be kept distinct from general crime and security laws, and the provisions of the Act which are not specifically targeted at terrorism should be reconsidered. In particular, the powers allowing foreign nationals to be detained potentially indefinitely should be replaced as a matter of urgency. Measures related to tackling the financing of terrorism and targeting those who withhold information about terrorist offences are welcomed, but there is a need for better safeguards in some cases. Security arrangements regarding weapons of mass destruction need to be enhanced. The provisions relating to identify theft are inadequate, and powers to amend any provision without primary legislation should be repealed.