Terrorism Bill

My Lords, it is very sad that Desmond Ackner—and I always think of him now as Desmond rather than as the noble and learned Lord, which he has just ceased to be—is no longer with us. He had a most distinguished career at the Bar and on the Bench, including as a member of the Appellate Committee of your Lordships’ House. But I think he will be remembered best in your Lordships’ House for his service on the Cross Benches as a retired Lord of Appeal in Ordinary. In that, as we all know, he was very active up until the last few days of his life, in spite of his increasing infirmity. Lord Ackner was dedicated to justice, the rule of law and the rights of the individual, and he rightly saw his function as being a thorn in the side of the government, as the Minister made all too clear, and from time to time of others as well, including myself. He was an outstanding example of the value that retired Law Lords can bring to your Lordships’ House, and he will be very sorely missed.