In developing our CT approach since 2015, HMG have been investing in a multi-agency approach at the national and local level. This approach recognises the complex needs and vulnerabilities of those at risk of being drawn into terrorism and extremism. It also acknowledges that, increasingly, data and information of relevance to CT is held by a wide range of departments and agencies, including non-traditional CT partners. When necessary and proportionate, OSCT [Office for Security and Counter-Terrorism]', CTP and MI5 look to engage other parts of HMG, sharing data and information and building a joint approach.[1]
316. The Director General for Homeland Security Group confirmed that Departments across Government are "represented in all of the conversations we have . . . [and are] actually seeing the wider strategic context of everything we are doing".[2] She assured the Committee that central teams in Homeland Security Group and the Prevent team are working closely with the Department of Health and Social Care and the Department for Education and others on joint programmes.[3] The Home Secretary was confident that this multi-agency approach was proving particularly effective in countering XRW behaviours, telling the Committee:
When you look at the associations, the age range and age profile quite frankly of individuals that are now being caught up, youngsters, children, there are all sorts of elements now about social services, education, we're now able to join that up in a much better way.[4]
Overdue for review
317. The Prevent programme - which has always been contentious—was supposed to have been reviewed in 2019:
- On 12 February 2019, Royal Assent was given to the Counter Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019, which included a commitment to undertake an independent review of Prevent.
- On 12 August 2019, the Government announced that Lord Carlile of Berriew had been appointed as the Independent Reviewer of Prevent.
- In October 2019, Human Rights Watch UK challenged the appointment of Lord Carlile and the terms of reference of the review.[5]
- On 19 December 2019, the Home Office confirmed that it would not be contesting the legal challenge, and Lord Carlile's role as the Independent Reviewer was terminated.
318. As a consequence, the review did not begin until January 2021. Homeland Security Group advised the Committee that it would be finalised by September 2021, and emphasised
- ↑ Written evidence - Home Office, 31 January 2020.
- ↑ Oral evidence - Home Office, 29 April 2021.
- ↑ Oral evidence - Home Office, 29 April 2021.
- ↑ Oral evidence - Home Secretary, 20 May 2021.
- ↑ Human Rights Watch UK contested the appointment of Lord Carlile on the grounds that he could not be truly independent as he had overseen the Government's first review of Prevent in 2011, and had also sat on the Prevent oversight board.
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