Brown Highlights UK's New Counter-Terrorism Measures
As previewed in a previous Security International News Item, the UK Prime Minister Gordon Brown has now announced a number of measures through which the government will take on the threat of terrorism. Among the features that will be implemented are buildings designed to withstand explosions, vehicle exclusion zones and new security barriers.
Police/Intelligence Members Uniting to Counter Extremists’ Influence
Mr Brown’s speech was made to the House of Commons on the 14th November. Covering a lot of bases, the statement highlighted how, in light of the attempted terrorist attacks in London and at Glasgow Airport in June/July this year, there exists a need to save the young from the radicalisation of militant groups. In this way, the Prime Minister proposed the formation of a new body – uniting members of both intelligence groups and the police – in order to investigate those deemed to be at risk of being influenced by extremists.
Security to be Strengthened at UK Railway Stations, Airports, Ports
Security, Mr Brown said, would be strengthened at the 250 most populated railway stations in the country, in addition to at ports, airports and over 100 alternative public areas. Information relating to the preservation of safety would be dispatched out to thousands of theatres, cinemas, hotels, sports arenas and grounds, churches, schools and hospitals, as part of the effort to tackle the threat of terrorism.
Additionally, firms tasked with preserving the peace of crowded locations would be provided with modernised guidance on how to better their current resistance to a potential attack.
Counter-Terrorism Advisers to Train Civilians
Approximately 160 advisers working within counter-terrorism will provide training to civilian staff, with a focus on identifying possible terrorist suspects, making sure satisfactory emergency facilities are in place, and optimising the potential offered by CCTV cameras.
Airports Can Apply to Change Hand Luggage Limit
In respect of airport hand luggage – currently restricted to a single piece for passengers leaving UK airports – Mr Brown said that, with effect from January 7th 2008, airports could apply for permission to up this. However, the present limits regarding the size of the luggage acceptable would stay in place, as would the criteria for liquids and gels. In this part of his speech, the Prime Minister reiterated comments made earlier on today by Transport Secretary Ruth Kelly.
Headteachers to Unite Against Terrorists Influencing the Young
Mr Brown’s speech also highlighted ways to act against the influence of radical fundamentalists working online, as well as in British schools, universities and other educational establishments. In this regard, he announced the formation of a forum of headteachers, tasked with identifying ways to safeguards their pupils’ best interests.
"There is no greater priority than the safety and security of our people and building the strongest possible relationships across all faiths and communities," Mr Brown stressed to the MPs gathered.
"And I believe it possible to build a stronger consensus that will both root out terrorist extremism and build more vibrant and cohesive communities."
Source – Security International’s Current Affairs Correspondent
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