David Anderson QC has published a weighty
report on his review of terrorism legislation. At 379 pages, it's quite a
read. But what I found fascinating is that he devotes a whole chapter to
civil society. Chapter 12. It’s worth a read.
His general approach to our sector is very wise. It’s one
that the Government would do well to heed, when they are wondering about the
value of civil society campaigning. His words could almost have come out of
ACEVO’s 2015
election manifesto, which highlighted the need for government to safeguard
a ‘free society’, for the sake of informed public debate and good quality laws.
He said:
“A wise legislator will proceed however on the basis that
the legal framework governing investigatory powers must be sufficiently robust
to satisfy not only those who are easily satisfied, but also those who are
suspicious of government or who feel deeply any intrusions into their privacy.”
Or in other words, it is very dangerous if the expertise of
civil society is ignored because the authorities find it unpalatable. On spying
and counter-terrorism as much as on issues like homelessness and social care.
When civil society speaks truth to power, as is our right and duty, it can be
uncomfortable. But the law and our country is all the better for it. We must
defend that right!
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