Tony Blair and the Government have suffered a humiliating defeat over his plan to allow the police to detain suspected terrorists for up to 90 days without charge. Mr Blair's first Commons defeat since coming to power in 1997 was heavier than expected and provoked speculation at Westminster about how long he could remain Prime Minister.
Transport Minister Karen Buck announced today that the Government is making a further £600 million available in 2005/06 to help local authorities modernise their street lighting. Commenting, Liberal Democrat Shadow Environment Secretary Norman Baker MP said:
Commenting on the publication of DEFRA's consultation document on adapting to climate change, Liberal Democrat Environment spokesperson Norman Baker MP said:
In the run-up to today's Parliamentary vote Andy Hayman, the head of counter-terrorism at the Association of Chief Police Officers, met about 30 wavering Labour backbenchers for an hour at Westminster last night alongside Mr Clarke and his deputy, Hazel Blears, in an attempt to persuade them to support the bill. Alistair Carmichael MP, Liberal Democrat Home Affairs spokesman said "The job of the police is to enforce the laws, not to make them. They are entitled to argue for more powers when they think they are necessary, but they need to tread extremely carefully."
Speaking on the Nick Ferrari LBC Breakfast show this morning, the Mayor of London Ken Livingstone gave his backing to Local Income Tax as a replacement for Council Tax. Shepway Liberal Democrats have been campaigning for the replacement of Council Tax with Local Income Tax (based on ability to pay), and welcomed the Mayors support.
West End residents to get security package offer
