MI5 could share information on 20,000 suspects

In a speech on an overhaul of the UK’s counter-terror strategy later today, Sajid Javid is expected to reveal plans for MI5 to declassify and share information on UK citizens suspected of having terrorist sympathies. In his first security-related speech since replacing Amber Rudd as Home Secretary, Javid will discuss increased sharing of information between security services, the private sector and other partners, which will see intelligence shared more between government, local authorities and the police. Javid is expected to comment on a ‘step change’ in the threat to the UK, whereby the timeframe between the conception and execution of terror plots has shortened. The Home Secretary’s speech is also expected to include calls for increased maximum sentences for some offences, improving the use of data to track terrorism suspects and outlining a new approach to deal with right-wing extremism, which Javid suggests is more closely linked with ISIS than people may think. Javid recently confirmed that UK security services were to receive 2,000 extra officers as part of a strategy to boost the UK's counter terrorism efforts. His announcement comes the day after the anniversary of the London Bridge and Borough Market attack. A minute's silence was held to remember the eight people who died and the 48 who were left injured following the vehicle attack on London Bridge and stabbings in Borough Market.