Brent East MP Sarah Teather has warned that the Prevention of Terrorism Bill could have same disastrous effects as internment in Northern Ireland in the 1970s.
Sarah Teather (Brent East) (LD): Does the Home Secretary accept that detention without trial was one of the most controversial and hated aspects of the troubles in Northern Ireland and consequently one of the most effective recruitment routes for terrorist organizations? What are the implications of the Bill for terrorist recruitment in this country?
Mr. Clarke: I do not accept the language that the hon. Lady used, but I accept that there are serious issues about the use of internment in the case that she mentioned. That is why such powers should not be used except in exceptional circumstances and after full consideration, which is precisely what I propose.
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