MP questions stop and search (From Stroud News and Journal)

MP questions stop and search

DAVID Drew MP has asked for an explanation of policing policy at RAF Fairford following reports of numerous protesters being stopped and searched outside the airbase under the new anti-terrorism laws.

The Stroud MP has asked home secretary David Blunkett what provision under the Terrorism Act 2000 is being used to prevent people from protesting at the site.

Mr Blunkett replied that: "The Terrorism Act is not being applied in the prevention of protests at RAF Fairford.

"Powers under this legislation are applied solely for the prevention and investigation of acts of terrorism."

But dozens of protesters have been stopped at the base by police who have cited Section 44 of the act.

"Gloucestershire Constabulary can confirm it has been given increased stop and search powers," said police spokesman Stephen Partridge.

"The order covers the counties of Gloucestershire and Wiltshire and gives police the powers to stop and search persons or vehicles in order to prevent terrorism."

The act defines a terrorist as someone who uses threats or serious violence against persons or property to influence governments or intimidate the public.

Mr Partridge said the legislation was being used to ensure security at the base, not to inhibit protesters.

"Everyone has a democratic right to protest and police will not interfere with that right unless there are issues of safety and welfare which could effect members of the public or base personnel," he said.

"However, if we become aware of any criminal offence or disorder then we will take steps to deal with them."

The stop and search tactics employed by police were lampooned by political comic Mark Thomas at a recent Fairford Rally.

"Saddam Hussein might be cunning but you're not going to find him hiding in people's sandwich boxes between the Marmite and the cucumber," he said.

Mr Drew is asking anyone stopped at Fairford under the act to get in touch with him, letting him know where and when the search took place, what the police said and what the search involved.

This can be done through the website www.faxyourmp.org or by faxing details to 0207 2190910.