HL Deb 11 October 2004 vol 665 c24WA
Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What instructions they have given to their representatives about the drafting of measures to implement Articles 1 to 3 of the Framework Decision on Combating Terrorism (2002). [HL4093]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The European Commission recently published a report on measures taken by member states to comply with the Framework Decision on Combating Terrorism. The report acknowledges that the United Kingdom (UK) has implemented Articles 1 and 2 of the framework decision, but raises some doubts about whether the UK is fully compliant with Article 3.

The Government believe that the UK is already able to ensure that appropriate charges can be brought against a person committing any of the offences listed in Article 3, but are considering whether anything further needs to be done to fully comply with the framework decision.

Lord Hylton

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether they will resist European Commission proposals for the wide circulation of names and personal details of persons investigated by police or security services, and of those charged but not prosecuted or else acquitted. [HL4091]

Baroness Scotland of Asthal

The European Commission has made a number of proposals aimed at improving information sharing for the purpose of combating terrorism and other forms of serious and organised crime. The Government support this aim and are in favour of improved exchange of criminal intelligence provided that it is proportionate and that proper data protection and human rights safeguards are put in place. It will also be important to ensure that any proposals are cost-effective, will facilitate the timely and secure exchange of relevant information, and will not prejudice the conduct of an investigation or trial or our national security.