Another Terrorism Bill defeat for the Government

The Government yesterday suffered its second series of defeats in as many days on a key piece of legislation, when the Lords rejected major parts of the Terrorism Bill. This followed the defeats of the Identity Cards Bill on Monday.

The Campaign Group led opposition to the Terrorism Bill in the Commons. Bob Marshall-Andrews' amendment on 'glorification' came within one vote of defeating the Government. The Lords have clearly noted the dissent of the Commons and followed its lead. On the dissemination of terrorist publications, also amended by the Lords, MPs received opposition from academics, unions and the British Library.

John McDonnell MP, Chair of the Socialist Campaign Group of Labour MPs, said

“The Lords decisions yesterday require the Government to re-think its approach to this legislation before it returns to the Commons.

“It is clear the Government's proposals do not have the support of Parliament and will not be passed by either House in the way the Government planned.

“This is second defeat this week on major legislation - the Government must listen.”

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