The indefinite detention without trial of suspected terrorists at Britains own Guantanamo Bay is one of the most shocking results of Blunketts far right anti-terror laws. However, this latest blow is both damaging to the government and a huge embarrassment for Blunkett on a day when he was probably hoping to slip out of the headlines.
His successor, Charles Clarke has promised to stay tough, but after being defeated 8 to 1 in the law lords vote that may be difficult.
The questions will now also be asked about Blairs entire election strategy. 6 months before a possible election that the PM has promised will be fought on security issues and he has lost both his Home Secretary and been totally humilated by the law lords.
"The real threat to the life of the nation, in the sense of a people living in accordance with its traditional laws and political values, comes not from terrorism but from laws such as these." - Lord Hoffman
It's been a good week.
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