Government defeated on plans for 90-day detention without charge

8.16.05pm GMT Wed 9th Nov 2005

Liberal Democrat MP, Jo Swinson, has welcomed this evening's vote against detaining terrorist suspects for 90 days without charge. The Government lost the vote by 322 to 291. A subsequent vote in favour of 28 day detention was backed by 323 votes to 290.

Commenting on the Government's defeat today Jo Swinson MP said, "Detaining people without bringing a charge for 3 months in unacceptable. Not only would it undermine the principles of our justice system, it could act as a recruiting sergeant for terror organisations.

"I am glad that the House of Commons has asserted its authority and defeated the government on this proposal. Clearly the government must think again. Elected with just 35% of the popular vote, I believe it is a healthy development for this government not to be able to take the House of Commons for granted."