David Walker presenter of Freedom From Fear

Freedom From Fear

David Walker asks whether there is always a trade-off between security and freedom, and where the balance should be struck. The American Presidential candidate Barry Goldwater once said: "Extremism in defence of liberty is no vice". But how far should we in Britain go to protect ourselves after the terrorist attacks on the USA? How should a liberal community react in times of crisis?

Those who guard our civil liberties have to be especially vigilant at the moment. That's where things can go very badly wrong

Chris Mullin, Labour MP

History suggests that over-reaction is common, often leading to extensions of state power which remain in place long after the drama has ended. But democratic electorates expect strong action and seem to give the state wide latitude. The community, in self-protective mode, tends to assign to the state new powers to impede movement of people, money and goods. At the moment the introduction of identity cards, the extension of police powers, a fast- track extradition system and proposals to outlaw the incitement of religious hatred are being actively considered by the Government.

It is not possible to win a battle against terrorism if your priorities as a police service and intelligence service are driven by political correctness or bureaucratic rightness

Paul Bew, Queen's University, Belfast

Yet politicians of all parties warn against the "Dangerous Dogs Act Syndrome": bad laws which are rushed through Parliament because the state wants to be seen to be doing something.

This is the first crisis which has occurred within the framework of the Human Rights Act. Does the Act prevent knee-jerk reactions, or does it hinder legislation which is necessary to ensure our security?

Producer: Ingrid Hassler