14 November 2007
Gordon Brown has revealed details of new security measures in a statement to Parliament today.
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- Listen to the statement - MP3
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Speaking to MPs following the regular Prime Minister’s Questions session, Mr Brown said the Government would focus on how to "root out terrrorism" and how to "strengthen communities" to prevent extremism gaining a foothold. A National Security Strategy will be published "in the next few weeks" and a Counter Terrorism Bill was also being drawn up, he said.
The PM listed a number of measures to be taken to improve security in public places in light of Lord West’s report delivered to minister’s today. These include the construction of "robust barriers" and parking exclusion zones as well as upgrading the blast resistance of buildings such as train station, airports, hospitals and sports venues.
Plans also exist to provide detailed guidance to businesses, such as theatres and restaurants, and training for civilian staff from a team of 160 counter-terrorism officers. The security budget will increase from £2.5 billion to £3.5 billion by 2011, the PM said.
Mr Brown stressed the importance of engaging with communities and vulnerable young people to counter "extremist influences". The battle for "hearts and minds" will require action through schools, community, sports and faith groups across the country, he said.
The PM also gave details of a new 25,000-strong Border Agency with the power to detain people on suspicion of criminal activity including terrorism.
- Gordon Brown reveals Border Agency details
- First duty is to protect the British people - PM
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Image copyright: Reuters
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