To broaden the debate on 42 days and terrorism  laws, I'm posting my piece written for the Progress website yesterday. 

Richard Scorer, Labour PPC

So the 'Bradford 5' are now free....
But how free are any of us, when mere thoughts of rebellion are considered enough to convict?

Just over two years ago Tony Blair experienced his first Commons defeat. A healthy majority of 66 was turned into a 31-vote defeat on the key vote on the terrorism bill. Tony Blair, a prime minister who possessed impressive skills of persuasion, could not convince enough of his own MPs to back an increased limit of 90 days on the detention of terrorism suspects without charge, even with the vocal support of the chief constables.

There is speculation that Gordon Brown will use next week's Queen's Speech as a means to attack David Cameron for being weak on national security.

Last year's battle may well be fought again as Gordon Brown backs calls for longer detention for terror suspects and the Home Office is apparently preparing fresh anti-terror measures to be unveiled in the Queen's Speech - with speculation that it may well include an attempt to reintroduce the 90-day limit.

Where do you stand on this one? A necessary evil or a step too far?