Terrorism watchdog questioned 'bewildering' array of terror powers

The terrorism watchdog has criticised the ‘bewildering’ range of anti-terror powers in the UK.

David Anderson QC, the independent reviewer of terrorism laws, questioned the need for specific powers to tackle suspected terrorists, brought about in nine separate pieces of legislation in just over a decade.

Delivering the annual Clifford Chance lecture in London last night, Mr Anderson said: “The case for special terrorism powers, I would suggest, should be approached with a measure of scepticism.

“Many advanced countries managed until recently without special terrorism laws of any kind.

“And the terror label, evocative as it is risks distorting anything to which it is attached by its sheer emotional power.

“Terrorism stands for everything that is extreme, dangerous, frightening and secret, qualities which render it glamorous to all who associate with it.”

He added: “I sometimes wish it had never found its way into law.

“For our more sober purposes, something more prosaic, politically motivated violent crime perhaps, might have been more suitable.”