Press Release: Sliding towards a police state in response to extremism is just another form of radicalism

Commenting on the Prime Minister’s new anti-terrorism measures, Communications Manager at the Adam Smith Institute, Kate Andrews, said:

The Prime Minister's decision to creep towards a police state in response to extremist threats is just another form of radicalism. While Islamic State militants gain power by creating a culture of fear, Britain plans to make citizens fearful of their own justice system by further empowering police to confiscate passports and detain travelers without clear evidence of wrongdoing.

The Prime Minister’s nuanced comments and eagerness to work across party lines should not be taken as a dedication to Britain’s long-standing civil liberties - especially when Labour leaders promote enthusiastically the return of control orders and increased surveillance.

The coalition should tread lightly as it looks to expand the powers of the State to combat radicalism; for it is often the good intentions of governments that lead to the radical stifling of individual freedoms and the erosion of the presumption of innocence.

Notes to editors:

For further comments or to arrange an interview, contact Kate Andrews, Communications Manager, at kate@adamsmith.org / 07584 778207.

The Adam Smith Institute is an independent libertarian think tank based in London. It advocates classically liberal public policies to create a richer, freer world.