Controversial powers in the UK allowing indefinite detention of foreign nationals suspected of terrorism must be retained, British Home Secretary David Blunkett insisted today.
Powers contained in the Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 permit internment of suspected overseas terrorists who can be neither tried nor deported.
A committee of privy counsellors, set up to review this provision, called last month for repeal, but Mr Blunkett rejected the plea.
Opening debate on their report, he said: "I do believe that for the time being it is absolutely crucial (the provision) remains in place and so do all those who have advised me in relation to the security risk..."
Mr Blunkett said he sincerely believed that 14 foreign nationals currently held under the powers posed a continuing threat.
He added: "If people have alternative ways of addressing the same challenges then they must bring them forward."
But the Government did not consider anything suggested so far was a substitute for the provision, he said.
Referring to recommendations by Lord Newton and Lord Carlile, who have reviewed the existing legislation, he said: "We do believe that there are sensible suggestions that would deal with lower levels of terrorist activity and association."
Ministers also believed some legislative measures implemented abroad were worthy of consideration.
