Charles Clarke: Terrorism-behaviours unacceptable in the UK

The Government's ongoing work to tackle terrorism and extremism took another step forward today as the Home Secretary, Charles Clarke, published a list of certain types of behaviours that will form the basis for excluding and deporting individuals from the UK.

The list, finalised following a two-week consultation, makes clear that the Home Secretary will use his powers to deport and exclude from the UKthose who engage in these types of behaviour. It makes clear that those who would attempt to foment terrorism or provoke others to commit terrorist acts are not welcome in the UK.

The list of unacceptable behaviours is indicative rather than exhaustive. It covers any non-UK citizen whether in the UK or abroad who uses any means or medium, including:

· writing, producing, publishing or distributing material;
· public speaking including preaching;
· running a website; or
· using a position of responsibility such as teacher, community or youth leader to express views which:
· foment, justify or glorify terrorist violence in furtherance of particular beliefs;
· seek to provoke others to terrorist acts;
· foment other serious criminal activity or seek to provoke others to serious criminal acts; or
· foster hatred which might lead to inter-community violence in the UK.

Mr Clarke said:

"The terrorist threat facing the UKremains real and significant and it is right that the Government and law enforcement agencies do everything possible to counter it. That includes tackling those who seek to foster hatred or promote terrorism, sending a strong message that they are not welcome in the UK.

"Individuals who seek to create fear, distrust and division in order to stir up terrorist activity will not be tolerated by the Government or by our communities. By publishing the list today I make it absolutely clear that these are unacceptable behaviours, and will be the grounds for deporting and excluding such individuals from the UK.

"The Home Office has received many contributions to this consultation, both from individuals and organisations. We have also taken the views of leaders and members of faith communities - Hazel Blears met with a cross-section of those leaders and has visited a number of communities across the country. We are grateful for their positive engagement.

"As I said when the consultation started, we recognise the sensitivities around the use of these powers and intend to use them in a measured and targeted way. These powers are not intended to stifle free speech or legitimate debate about religions or other issues. Britainis rightly proud of its openness and diversity and we must not allow those driven by extremism of any sort to destroy that tradition."

A database of individuals around the world who have demonstrated these unacceptable behaviours will be developed and will be available to entry clearance and immigration officers.