Losing the plot

Perhaps choosing to let this news out on budget day when the media's attention is somewhat focused on matters fiscal,it has been announced that the 12 men arrested under the prevention of terrorism act were not in fact planning to bomb the Trafford Centre,St Anne's square or anywhere else in the North West.

Instead 11 are to be deported presumably under misuse of their student visas?

Another severe embarrassment to the anti terrorist unit who were forced to move quick after Mr Quick let the proverbial rabbit of the hat outside No 10.

It has been announced that Lord Carlile of Berriew will conduct a review into the events of the last couple of weeks.

Although the police seem to think that it is perfectly reasonable to hold these men for nearly two weeks and then release them without charge,citing as the chief constable of Manchester Mr Fahy says is simply carrying out our duty.

Questions have to be asked about the due process of the arrests and the comments made by certain politicians over the seriousness of the inquiry.

Time to change ?

If you read this morning's papers you may feel get the impression that we are living in a police state


This rampant executive must be brought under control says the Independent in its editorial this morning.

The paper,responding to the poltical events of the week says that

This has been a week to provoke uncomfortable contemplation about the sort of country we are we now living in

The Indy adds that

The common imprint on each of these stories is that of the unaccountable and rampant executive arm of the British state.

According to the paper

This twisted state of affairs – civil servants hyping security threats, the police assaulting innocent members of the public, local councils snooping on their electorates – did not arise overnight. It is a toxic consequence of years of illiberal policy-making and a growing arrogance on the part of those who govern Britain