Jim Feldkamp Sharing of Declassified Information
In reaction to the 2017 attacks in the UK, Home Secretary Sajid Javid has recently revealed plans for the MI5 to share declassified intelligence to what he refers to as “multi-agency centers.” James Feldkamp comments on the proposed pilot program set to launch in London, Midlands, and Manchester. There must be no “safe spaces” for terror suspects anywhere, Javid told BBC News.
Attacks linked to terrorism in 2017 include the bombing of the Manchester Arena at the end of an Ariana Grande concert, an attack on London Bridge involving a van and several stabbings, and the detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED) on a packed Tube train at Parsons Green station.
In the wake of these tragic events, the plan is to share key biographical data to local councils, the probation service, and neighborhood policing groups as well as the Ministry of Housing, Communities, and Local Government among others. The formerly classified MI5 information will be properly screened for sensitive information and released in tranches of about 100 subjects initially, which is a fraction of the 3,000 subjects of interest and 20,000 closed subjects of interest which were previously investigated and may pose a threat in the future. Javid says they will be releasing just enough information so they can help.
The James Feldkamp notes that the Home Secretary has been the driving force behind several efforts to counter terrorist acts including a 2018 Counterterrorism and Border Security Bill. According to UK.gov, “The bill will update, and close gaps in existing counterterrorism legislation to ensure that it is fit for the digital age and reflect contemporary patterns of radicalization.”
The new bill is said to include “Three Strike Rule,” which will penalize offenders on their third incidence caught viewing inflammatory propaganda videos, and to clarify that the offense of displaying an image which arouses suspicion that the person is supporter of a proscribed organization will cover online posts.