Terrorism Bill

My Lords, I refer the noble Lord to subsection (4)(b) and,"““a statement from which those members of the public could reasonably be expected to infer that what is being glorified is being glorified as conduct that should be emulated by them in existing circumstances””," which is exactly what I said. Furthermore, any prosecutions would need to be approved by the DPP in cases of domestic terrorism or by the Attorney-General in cases of overseas terrorism. Only prosecutions that are in the public interest would be brought. Those who glorify terrorism will be prosecuted only if they do so in a way that encourages others to copy these acts in today’s circumstances. I should add that on the criteria for the proscription of terrorist groups, which is another very important part of the Bill, specific safeguards are in place, including parliamentary approval subject to affirmative procedure, and appeal rights. The power of the Home Secretary to proscribe terrorist organisations is very far from being unfettered. I think it is very important for this House to send out a clear signal that no one, by carefully avoiding direct incitement, can continue to encourage others, especially the young, to commit terrorism. I support Motion A in the name of my noble friend, Lady Scotland.