§ Lord Lairdasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they will ensure that any move they make against terrorism, their bases, weapons and funds will include all groups operating in the United Kingdom. [HL739]
§ The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Rooker)The Government are determined that this country should not be used as a base for the planning and preparation of terrorism, both within the United Kingdom or overseas. The extension of the proscription regime earlier this year to include international terrorist organisations demonstrates this Government's commitment to change the climate in which supporters of terrorism seek to operate in this country. The United Kingdom has no intention of becoming a place of refuge for international terrorists and their supporters.
To this end the Government are looking at a package of finance measures to strengthen existing legislation against terrorism. As my right honourable friend the Home Secretary has said, this will include further measures to tackle the funding of terrorists. In addition, the Proceeds of Crime Bill will be introduced shortly and contains measures to remove illegally-gained assets from criminals, including terrorists.