§ Mr. MullinTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to ensure that the United Kingdom cannot be used as a haven for persons planning or preparing for terrorist activities in foreign countries; what plans he has to introduce legislation similar to that proposed in the Jurisdiction (Conspiracy and Incitement) Bill in the 1996–97 session of Parliament; and if he will make a statement. [23319]
§ Mr. StrawCountering the activities of those who may be seeking to assist terrorism outside the United Kingdom is a high priority for the police and Security Service. If there is evidence that organisations or individuals are supporting terrorism, action is taken under the criminal law or under Immigration Act powers.
On 30 October last year, I announced the Government's intention to publish a consultation document which will propose permanent United Kingdom-wide legislation designed to deal with all forms of terrorism, including foreign terrorist groups and their supporters. The Government also intend to bring forward legislation to make it illegal to conspire in the United Kingdom to commit terrorist acts abroad.