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UK Terrorism Threat Level
05 November 2020
Lead MP
James Brokenshire
Debate Type
Ministerial Statement
Tags
TaxationNorthern IrelandCommunity Security
Other Contributors: 32
At a Glance
James Brokenshire raised concerns about uk terrorism threat level in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Government Statement
The Minister announces a change in the UK terrorism threat level from 'substantial' to 'severe', indicating an attack is highly likely. Since March 2017, UK police and security services have foiled 27 plots, including eight right-wing motivated attacks. The Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC) sets the threat level based on intelligence and considers factors such as capability, intent and timescale. This change in threat level is precautionary following recent terrorist attacks in France and Austria, which suggest a rising temperature of the threat in Europe. Communities are uniformly condemning these attacks and emphasise that places of worship should never be targets for violence. The national terrorism threat level takes account of threats from all forms of terrorism including Islamist, right-wing and Northern Ireland-related terrorism. Counter-terrorism policing mechanisms have been activated and additional police officers will be deployed to certain areas over the coming days. The Government will continue to invest in security and intelligence agencies to ensure they have necessary resources.
Julian Lewis
Con
New Forest East
Question
What advice does my right hon. Friend have for people who see worrying signs that someone they know is developing an extremist outlook?
Minister reply
People should report concerns in confidence to the police through the counter-terrorism hotline at 0800 789 321 or via additional resources online and through the Action Counters Terrorism (ACT) app.
Question
What work is being carried out with local communities and faith groups to ensure a co-ordinated response as the threat level is increased? What support and assistance are being offered to minority groups in need of additional reassurance?
Minister reply
The Home Office works closely with communities through the counter-terrorism network, providing contact and advice to places of vulnerability. The Places of Worship Scheme has awarded 183 grants in England and Wales for security measures. Lessons from Scotland's approach are being considered for implementation across the UK.
Question
In mid-September, counter-terrorism police warned the Home Secretary that a far-right extremist had attempted to carry out a terrorist attack in London; will the Minister acknowledge that there is a responsibility on politicians and other public figures to avoid saying anything that could inflame tensions or put people at risk?
Minister reply
This case is pre-trial, so it would not be appropriate to provide further comment that may impact legal proceedings.
Liam Fox
Con
Wealden
Question
I thank my right hon. Friend for making it clear that Islamist terrorists are a threat not just to our physical security, but to all that we stand for. They are of separatist tendency, intolerant, violent and against our very way of life. Does he agree that all of us, in this House and beyond, have a duty to constantly re-emphasise our belief in democracy, a secular rule of law, freedom of the individual, religious tolerance, and equality between men and women? Do we not have a further duty to make it very clear that what we believe in is not just different from the Islamists—that what we believe in is better?
Minister reply
I am grateful to my right hon. Friend for expressing that view. It is our liberal democracy, values and principles—who we are—that these terrorists want to attack and change. We will not allow them to do so, because it is the very essence of our country, our values and our democracy that makes us strong; by being vigilant and robust in our defence of those values, we will ensure that these people never, ever succeed.
Yvette Cooper
Lab
Pontefract, Castleford and Knottingley
Question
I thank the Minister for his statement. I also thank the police, and security and intelligence agencies, for the work that they continue to do to defend our values and keep us safe. I join the Minister in thinking of those who have been affected by the terrible attacks in France and Austria. We stand firm with our friends and neighbours against these violent extremists and terrorists.
Given how important it is for us to be able to work closely with our neighbours against terrorism and extremism, will the Minister update the House on the progress with establishing a new security agreement for the end of the transition process? In particular, can he confirm that the Government expect to have strong arrangements in place on information sharing, access to crucial databases, work with Europol and arrest warrants in time for 1 January, and that not to do so would make it much harder for the police and security agencies, who work so hard to keep us safe?
Minister reply
As the right hon. Lady will appreciate, the negotiations with our EU partners are at a sensitive point. We continue to focus firmly on security issues, but I remain positive that we will find a way through, recognising the important message that we are stronger by working together and that it is that co-ordination and co-operation that assists us all.
Matthew Offord
Con
Hendon
Question
May I put on record my gratitude, and the gratitude of my constituents and the Community Security Trust, for the decision by the Metropolitan police to provide additional patrols in the Hendon constituency following the Vienna attack? Is the Minister aware that some parts of the media erroneously reported that the attack in Vienna was at a synagogue, and that this produced an increase in the amount of online incitement from jihadists and far-right extremists? If the threat level has been changed as a result of a heightened threat to the Jewish community, can the Minister provide reassurances that sufficient police resources will be provided to meet that threat?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend is clearly aware of the reassurance approach that counter-terrorism policing has taken. That has led to increased patrols and discussion with the counter-terrorism policing network and the Community Security Trust, to provide that reassurance, and ensure that action is well co-ordinated.
Ian Paisley Jnr
DUP
North Antrim
Question
I, too, wish to extend my thoughts and prayers to the families, and to all those who have been bereaved or injured by these horrendous, horrible and evil attacks. The Vienna authorities have indicated that they failed to act on some of the advice they were given, and I hope that such a criticism could never be made of our British authorities and the good work they do. The jihadist and Islamist terror threat, and the Irish terror threat, are well known and well voiced, and this adds weight to calls to have the Muslim Brotherhood proscribed in this country. Will the Minister take this opportunity to commend the work of the National Crime Agency? It has a magnificent approach to its work across all the United Kingdom, and it works closely with our authorities in Northern Ireland. Is there any effort to extend that organisation’s footprint in Northern Ireland?
Minister reply
I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman for highlighting the excellent work done by the National Crime Agency. Earlier this year I was able to travel to Northern Ireland and see the actions of the NCA, and meet some of the officers who are doing sterling work in Belfast and across the whole of Northern Ireland.
Alicia Kearns
Con
Rutland and Stamford
Question
All of us owe a daily debt to the security services, the Foreign Office and the police for all that they do to keep us safe, and my heart goes out to all those who have lost friends and loved ones in the recent devastating attacks. I appreciate the supportive tone of those on the Opposition Front Bench, but will my right hon. Friend confirm that just a few weeks ago, when the House was asked to give our security services the support they need in the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Bill, those on the Opposition Front Bench sat on their hands and refused to stand by our security services?
Minister reply
Parties across the House need to reflect on the messages they give, and Conservative Members stand full square behind our police and security agencies. That is why we judge that the Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Bill is important to safeguard capabilities and ensure that terrorist plots can be disrupted.
Alistair Carmichael
Lib Dem
Orkney and Shetland
Question
I thank the Minister for advance sight of this statement. He is well regarded across the House because he takes his duties seriously, and he generally goes about his business in a thoughtful and non-partisan way that prioritises keeping us all safe. I think we should place that on the record, whatever other disagreements we may occasionally have. With that in mind, is he aware of the comments of former EU security commissioner, Julian King, who said that a Brexit deal would still provide useful access to intelligence and security co-operation across the European Union, but that a no-deal Brexit would mean cutting ourselves off from that? Given his approach in other areas, what is the Minister doing to ensure that we have the best possible access to security and intelligence sharing post 31 December?
Minister reply
I am grateful to the right hon. Gentleman for his comments, and yes, I do take these issues incredibly seriously, as he well knows from the discussions on these topics that we have had over many years.
Gareth Bacon
Con
Orpington
Question
The current floundering Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, has threatened to cut the Metropolitan police budget by £110 million. Does my right hon. Friend agree that that would be grossly irresponsible and leave us at greater threat of terrorism?
Minister reply
I am concerned by what my hon. Friend has said. In January, the Home Secretary announced a £90 million increase in funding for counter-terrorism policing, taking the total for this year to £906 million, the highest ever.
John Nicolson
SNP
Dunbartonshire East
Question
The UK Government fund community groups to work against extremism. Were the budgets for those groups cut this year? If so, is the Minister concerned that any reduced funding at a time of increased threat could hinder efforts to help communities fight the battle against extremism?
Minister reply
I would say to the hon. Gentleman that clearly we have supported communities. We have supported funding for places of worship and those who may be effective. We have our Prevent strategy, which absolutely is about engaging and ensuring that communities can come forward.
Ben Everitt
Con
North East Bedfordshire
Question
Colleagues across the House have talked rightly about defending our liberal values, but it is first and foremost our people we must defend—the first duty of any Government. Can my right hon. Friend elaborate to the House what powers and tools he is giving to our police forces, including my own force, Thames Valley police, to keep us safe from this emerging and evolving terrorist threat?
Minister reply
As I have indicated, the Government will do all that is necessary to ensure that the counter-terrorism, policing and security services have the necessary tools. We have acted swiftly in seeing the end of automatic release for terror-connected offenders, and the Counter-Terrorism and Sentencing Bill will strengthen things further.
Tan Dhesi
Lab
Slough
Question
The MP expressed sadness and solidarity with France and Austria after recent terrorist attacks. He inquired about lessons learned from these events for the UK's counter-terrorism strategy, including the role of intelligence sharing and collaboration.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire highlighted the importance of information sharing within the Five Eyes group and European partners, noting that the Contest counter-terrorism strategy informs international approaches. The minister emphasised ongoing vigilance and open-mindedness in strengthening tools and powers.
Question
The MP sought clarification on the number of individuals potentially inspired by violent Daesh or far right extremism in the UK over the past year, and whether this figure has increased.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire commended Rehman Chishti's work against extremism but declined to provide specifics regarding intelligence matters. He cited MI5’s statement of several thousand subjects under monitoring and emphasised the government's support for counter-terrorism efforts.
Question
The MP questioned whether legal representatives for those detained under terrorism legislation would be protected from being besmirched or undermined, referencing incidents in Northern Ireland.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire stressed the importance of fair representation and condemned any undermining of the rule of law by terrorists. The minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to upholding legal principles.
Question
The MP inquired about progress on the Prevent review and emphasised the need for making the programme more effective.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire commended Imran Ahmad Khan's work and reiterated his commitment to improving the Prevent programme through a full review. He noted that a new independent reviewer would be appointed shortly.
Andrew Gwynne
Ind
Gorton and Denton
Question
The MP sought information on counter-terror policing funding requests amidst the upcoming comprehensive spending review.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire acknowledged the importance of national security but stated that discussions on resource allocation are ongoing and will be announced in due course.
Question
The MP asked for assurance regarding protection measures for French sites within her constituency following recent terrorist attacks.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire assured the MP that counter-terrorism policing is aware of and prioritises these areas, emphasising the importance of protecting communities against extremism.
Question
The MP highlighted solidarity from Swansea's Muslim community in condemning recent terrorist attacks and emphasised the need for united efforts to combat terrorism across all communities.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire agreed that standing together against extremism is crucial, noting that Islam is a peaceful religion perverted by terrorists. He underscored the importance of unity among communities.
Question
The MP questioned whether today’s protests should proceed given the severe terrorism threat level and current public health guidelines.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire acknowledged the right to peaceful protest but emphasised that gatherings risk spreading disease during the pandemic. He encouraged adherence to rules, with police enforcing laws as necessary.
Diana R. Johnson
Lab
Kingston upon Hull North and Cottingham
Question
The MP highlighted concerns about increased online radicalisation due to lockdowns and questioned whether powers are adequate for monitoring potentially dangerous individuals.
Minister reply
James Brokenshire noted the committee's concern over terrorist exploitation of internet use. He emphasised collaboration with tech companies and the necessity for solutions that prioritise public safety, particularly regarding end-to-end encryption.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Question
Last weekend, the papers in Northern Ireland reported that dissident republicans had a very large bomb. For our police to effectively prevent and respond to terrorist attacks, they need all funding and resources required. Can he confirm that £90 million funding boost this Government delivered for counter-terrorism police ensures that regional forces have capabilities to mount swift and effective response to any terrorist attack and that additional funding is making its way to Northern Ireland?
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises the focus on security in Northern Ireland, confirming that the UK remains vigilant against threats. He assures that a co-ordinated and resolute approach is taken regarding funding, ensuring all parts of the United Kingdom are safe and secure.
Question
The terrorist threat to this country does not only come from isolated individuals but also from hostile states. Can my right hon. Friend outline powers that this Government has given police forces and security services to combat these threats?
Minister reply
My hon. Friend's point about the threat from hostile states is appreciated. The Minister affirms a resolute and vigilant approach against such threats, indicating further measures in consideration and commitment to legislation on countering hostile state activity.
Question
Many individuals start their path to extremism and radicalisation online due to pandemic-induced increased internet usage. Does he agree that it is crucial to move forward with the delayed online harms Bill without further stalling?
Minister reply
The Minister emphasises emphasis on the online space, working with online companies through the Counter-Terrorism Internet Referral Unit for takedown work. He confirms response to the White Paper will be published shortly, followed by legislation.
Question
Recent terrorist attacks across Europe are deeply concerning, and emergency services in Carshalton and Wallington have a joined-up approach to preparations for major incidents. Can he assure that this multi-agency approach is taken across the United Kingdom with powers and resources needed?
Minister reply
The Minister assures that strengthened powers and additional resources are provided under review. He reiterates national security and citizen safety as Government priorities.
Rachel Hopkins
Lab
Luton South and South Bedfordshire
Question
Recent attacks in France and Austria raise concern about increasing terror threat levels corresponding with increases in racism and hate crimes against Muslim communities by the far right. What conversations has he had with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on actions to stop this happening?
Minister reply
The Minister affirms support for all communities, noting action taken on proscribing various groups under careful review. He highlights disruption of eight right-wing terrorist plots since March 2017.
Question
Attacks in Paris, Nice and Vienna are attacks on all of us cutting to heart of our values. To tackle constantly evolving threat, it is vital that security services have necessary tools. Will the Minister urgently introduce legislation when Manchester bombing inquiry reports findings?
Minister reply
The Minister affirms ongoing challenge for more steps if needed upon conclusion of the Manchester inquiry and application of recommendations.
Question
Despite political differences, I have a great deal of respect for him. He did not reply to part of Joanna Cherry’s question reminding us that allowing language of hatred to become acceptable can lead to actions of hatred. Election observers accused man claiming to be the leader of the free world of weakening confidence in election process. Will he follow Justice Secretary’s example in committing to mindful use of language and urging Cabinet colleagues to do same?
Minister reply
The Minister stands for rule of law, reflecting on seeing it as a core part of our values against terrorism and hatred.
Bob Blackman
Con
Harrow East
Question
Many attacks across Europe are religiously motivated. Places of worship currently closed for collective worship but available for private worship, with Hindu new year in two weeks’ time. What arrangements have been made to ensure people attending places of religious worship for private prayer can do so safely and securely during lockdown?
Minister reply
Counter Terrorism Policing has asked forces to review events over next 14 days to ensure appropriate advice and security arrangements are put in place.
Rachael Maskell
Lab/Co-op
York Central
Question
Many perpetrators of terrorism are isolated and vulnerable individuals. What terms of reference will be in Prevent review to ensure a safeguarding approach?
Minister reply
Safeguarding is an important element of Prevent work, involving different agencies. Final stages of appointing independent reviewer for terms of reference discussion.
Question
The threat we face from terrorism is ever evolving. What technology and data tools have been made available to security services so that they can stop these attacks before they occur?
Minister reply
World-leading intelligence agencies invest in ensuring right capabilities for data-driven age, but techniques and tactics will not be opened up here.
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