← Back to House of Commons Debates
Prevention and Suppression of Terrorism
18 January 2024
Lead MP
Thomas Tugendhat
Debate Type
General Debate
Tags
Community Security
Other Contributors: 12
At a Glance
Thomas Tugendhat raised concerns about prevention and suppression of terrorism in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
Proposes the proscription of Hizb ut-Tahrir due to its antisemitic ideology, promotion and encouragement of terrorism, and support for Hamas attacks. Details the history and activities of Hizb ut-Tahrir, including evidence that it is concerned in terrorism and its support for violent acts against Jews. Outlines the impact on communities and international support for proscription.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Questions if the Minister is aware that Zeyno Baran of the Hudson Institute has observed that the British chapter of Hizb ut-Tahrir is the 'nerve centre' of the international movement, emphasising the responsibility to protect citizens not just in Britain but also abroad.
Dan Jarvis
Lab
Barnsley North
Thanking the Security Minister and acknowledging the work of intelligence and security services, Dan Jarvis emphasises the necessity of proscribing Hizb ut-Tahrir to counter its hateful extremism. He highlights that other countries such as Germany have already banned the organisation due to its antisemitic activities following Hamas's attack on Israel. Jarvis raises concerns about the time taken to proscribe Hizb ut-Tahrir and questions whether the current process is robust enough, calling for a bespoke mechanism for state-sponsored organisations. Additionally, he inquires when the Government will provide a new definition of hateful extremism and update its counter-extremism strategy.
Andrew Percy
Con
Brigg and Goole
Welcomed the Minister's and shadow Minister's statements on Hizb ut-Tahrir. Emphasised support for proscribing Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Criticised Hizb ut-Tahrir as antisemitic, racist, and promoting terrorism. Highlighted specific individuals involved in terrorist activities linked to Hizb ut-Tahrub. Noted the 1,000%-plus increase in antisemitism. Raised concerns over continued targeting of Jewish community despite proscription. Called for tougher action beyond the ban.
Kirsty Blackman
SNP
Aberdeen North
Supported the proscription of Hizb ut-Tahrir, commending the Union of Jewish Students and Danny Stone from Antisemitism Policy Trust. Called for further actions to remove Hizb ut-Tahrir's ability to operate internationally. Asked the Minister to update on any further assessment regarding the proscription of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Chingford and Woodford Green
The proscription of Hizb ut-Tahrir is overdue, as the organisation has been actively operating in the UK for some time. I support my government's decision to proscribe the group due to its antisemitic nature and encouragement of terrorism globally. Additionally, I urge the government to address the activities of the IRGC, which supports groups like Hizb ut-Tahrir and poses a significant threat by supplying weapons to the Houthis in Yemen. The speaker also highlighted the necessity for closing Iranian banks operating in London to curb financial support for such organisations.
Bury South
Congratulates the Government on banning Hizb ut-Tahrir, which he describes as an extremist antisemitic group. He highlights the dangers posed by HUT to both democratic institutions and individuals in the UK, particularly university campuses where they have been active despite previous efforts to stop them. Wakeford expresses concern over potential loopholes for front groups and urges the Minister to ensure these are closed. He also calls for proscription of IRGC due to its antisemitic activities and destabilizing influence abroad.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Supports the ban on Hizb ut-Tahrir, noting it is overdue but necessary given recent events. He expresses concern about the speed of such decisions and calls for a review of tools like the Prevent strategy to ensure they are effective in tackling extremism. Carmichael emphasises that proscribing groups also benefits Muslim communities by protecting them from Islamophobia.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Thanks the Minister for his clarity and strength of intention regarding the ban on Hizb ut-Tahrir. He stresses the importance of addressing terrorist activities and intentions, particularly in light of recent events involving Hamas. Shannon calls for further proscription of IRGC due to its funding and training of terrorists globally. He also raises concerns about international terrorism's impact on Northern Ireland and urges unity among police forces to protect citizens.
Thomas Tugendhat
Con
Tonbridge
Pays tribute to Members for the tone of debate, thanks Dan Jarvis and Holly Lynch; acknowledges work done by intelligence services; emphasises urgency recognised by SNP and Labour; discusses timing of proscription; warns about use of proscription tool only when necessary; praises Robin Simcox's role in countering extremism; supports banning online activities of Hizb ut-Tahrir; addresses concerns raised about antisemitism on university campuses and the actions taken to address it; mentions conversations with police regarding enforcement; highlights pattern of violence linked to Iran, Russia, and Houthi piracy; discusses National Security Act 2023 and National Security and Investment Act 2021; confirms readiness to update House on proscription options; emphasises protection against radicalisation and front groups.
Bury South
Invites Members to join an upcoming march in Manchester against antisemitism.
Desmond Swayne
Con
New Forest West
Suggests confining marches to static locations to avoid inhibiting people from attending central London on weekends and impacting commerce.
Kirsty Blackman
SNP
Aberdeen North
Praises the Union of Jewish Students in Aberdeen for their work; asks Minister to update House about the impact of actions taken regarding proscription.
▸
Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy
About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.