Lib Dem push for review of terrorism laws

Ed Davey urges a review of terrorism laws following arrests at Palestine Action protests, signaling a fresh clash over security powers and civil liberties.

Lib Dem Leader Calls for Review of Terrorism Legislation After Palestine Action Arrests

Ed Davey, the Liberal Democrat leader, urged a review of terrorism legislation after supporters of Palestine Action were arrested at demonstrations across Britain. He said the group has carried out criminal acts and is a very worrying organisation, but the scale of arrests appears to be en masse. The Lib Dems have written to the independent reviewer to explore changes so this does not happen again, and Davey explained on BBC Breakfast why his party abstained from the vote to proscribe Palestine Action.

The update shows how security policy is being tested in public and at protests. The focus is on whether the laws used to curb potential terrorism can be balanced with civil liberties and lawful protest. The Lib Dems want clearer rules that prevent overreach while still addressing real threats.

The push for a review reflects a wider tension between keeping people safe and protecting basic rights. If the laws are too broad or used too aggressively, trust in the justice system can suffer. A formal review could set clearer criteria for who is targeted and why, which may please civil liberties groups but could face criticism from hardliners. The debate also comes amid a busy political week where security, foreign policy and public order are all on the table, complicating how parties position themselves ahead of elections.

Looking ahead, the issue could influence how voters judge the government’s approach to protests and counterterrorism. A transparent process with publishable criteria could help, but any changes will be watched closely by opposition parties, rights groups, and the public who want safety without sacrificing freedoms.

Highlights

The balance between security and rights remains a live test for British democracy.