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UK Terror Watchdog Opposes Redefining Terrorism, Proposes New Law for Lone Attackers

Jonathan Hall KC warns against expanding terrorism laws, citing risks to free speech and resource allocation, while recommending a new offense to address mass-killing plots.

Police tape outlines a perimeter, in Maple street, near a tribute for the victims of a knife attack in Southport, Britain, August 2, 2024. REUTERS/Manon Cruz/File Photo
A mother hugs her child as they look at floral tributes for the victims of a deadly knife attack in Southport (Photo: PETER POWELL/AFP via Getty Images)
Sir Keir Starmer, pictured paying his respects to the victims of the Southport stabbings, has called for terrorism laws to be expanded to cover violent lone attackers following the atrocity

Overview

  • The UK’s independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, Jonathan Hall KC, has advised against broadening the definition of terrorism to include violent crimes without ideological motives.
  • Hall proposed a new legal offense targeting individuals planning mass killings, with penalties including life imprisonment, to address gaps in current legislation.
  • The Southport attack, where Axel Rudakubana killed three children and injured 10 others, prompted Prime Minister Keir Starmer to suggest revising terrorism laws to address threats from violent loners.
  • Hall warned that redefining terrorism could lead to overreach, misclassification of crimes, and restrictions on free speech, such as criminalizing the sharing of violent content.
  • The report also highlighted the need for better communication from police during high-profile cases to counter misinformation and prevent public distrust.