The Bill which updates the powers available to the police and security services takes another step towards finally reaching the statute book today when the House of Commons considers the amendments made by the House of Lords to the Investigatory Powers Bill. I support the Bill. Firstly it has been subject to the most extensive pre-legislative scrutiny. Secondly, I want the police and the security services to have power they need to try and prevent further terrorist attacks on the UK. Thirdly, I am not convinced that the powers will be misused. I believe there are sufficient safeguards in place and I do not believe that the security services are going to spend time just checking up on the internet activities of people who are just going about their lawful business.
Before that Bill is considered there are questions to the Lord Chancellor and the Ministry of Justice. This morning I have a meeting with representatives of the Manchester Airports Group following the announcement of the Heathrow expansion plan. This afternoon I am attending a meeting of the Backbench Business Committee.
David Nuttall 