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  • TERRORISM ACT 2006

  • The Terrorism Act 2006 created unacceptably broad speech offences.
     
    The Act criminalises individuals and organisations that 'encourage' terrorism, including by making statements that glorify terrorist acts.
     
    Crucially, there is no need for the individual or group to have any intention that criminal acts would be taken as a result.
     
    'Intent' is a vital element of any speech offence because speech itself is not criminal. It should only become criminal if we intend other to commit offences as a result of what we say.
     
    These new crimes represent a serious incursion on free speech rights, criminalising careless talk and banning non-violent political organisations.

    • New Terrorism Act powers will make Britain less safe

    • Today, the Terrorism Act 2006 comes into force, making the 'glorification' of terrorism a criminal offence and extreme political groups facing proscription. Liberty is deeply concerned that outlawing passionate speech and criminalizing non-violent political parties will make Britain less safe by silencing dissent.
    • 13.04.2006

    • New Anti Terror Bill Published

    • The Government today published details of its new anti-terror Bill. Amidst the details are a range of frighteningly broad powers.
    • 15.09.2005

  • In other sections

  • General campaign page on anti-terrorism measures.

  • Policy Briefings

  • Most of the parliamentary debates on the Terrorism Act 2006 took place in 2005. Briefings on the Bill are grouped together in this index.