Some of the British press today are playing up apparent tensions in the remarks on anti-terrorism measures made yesterday by Tony Blair in Britain and his wife, attorney Cherie Blair, at a meeting in Malaysia. The prime minister expressed frustration at political and legal impediments to policies such as extending the detention of terrorism suspects (to allow for more questioning and investigation of their ties and activities) and deporting suspects who are in violation of other British laws. In general, Blair said, Britain and the world have relaxed their guard too much after 9/11.
But his wife went in another direction:
“. . . It is all too easy for us to respond to such terror in a way which undermines commitment to our most deeply held values and convictions and which cheapens our right to call ourselves a civilised nation. The Government, even in times when there is a threat to national security, must act strictly in accordance with the law.”
Yes, of course, governments shouldn’t overreact, and fighting the thugs overseas is quite a good way to reduce the need for uncomfortable measures at home. A balance must be struck. But the two Blairs seem to be pressing on the opposite ends of the scales.