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Revised counter-terror strategy published

Aim of the strategy is to reduce the risk to the UK and UK interests

A revised edition of CONTEST: the UK's strategy for countering terrorism, has been published.

Secretary of state for the  Home Department, Theresa May, announced in a written ministerial statement in the House of Commons that international counter-terrorism work has made very significant progress over the past ten years and AL Qa'ida is weaker than at any time since 9-11.

Continued international pressure can further reduce its capability, and the UK must work with other countries to seize those opportunities in the coming months and years.

In her statement, May outlined their 'Pursue' work, the purpose of which is to stop terrorist attacks, and the most controversial counter-terrorism and security powers which have been in place here have been reviewed and significant changes made to them.

Also, 'Prevent', which aims to stop people being drawn into terrorist activity, and has already published a comprehensive assessment or work to date and a statement of the future strategy.

In the 'Protect' work, May stated that they will continue to respond to recent threats in aviation security and will further strengthen our borders - notably through the formation of the National Crime Agency - and the protection of their critical infrastructure.

For 'Prepare' - their contingency planning - the statement read that they have learnt lessons from previous terrorist attacks.

May said: "The aim of our counter-terrorist strategy is to reduce the risk to the UK and UK interests so that people can go about their lives freely and with confidence."

"The scope of the strategy has been broadened to cover all forms of terrorism and has been changed to reflect the government's security and counter-terrorism policies."

Further information:
Home Office

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