So, what a surprise, David Davis wins his artificial by-election
He forced this by-election to demonstrate "look at me!" his principled stand on Terrorism Legislation.
So principled is David Davis that he is proven not to actually give a stuff about Terrorism Legislation, that is, legislation that the Government believes is essential to protect the lives and liberty of UK citizens and that many commentators fear will have the unwanted consequence of eroding certain principles of liberty. A difficult balancing act, one on which I have no opinions, and don't envy those committed to Freedom who have to make finely-balanced judgements.
And why do I know that David Davis gives not a stuff? Just last month, Lord Carlisle of Berriew QC, the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Acts presented his annual report to Parliament. In paragraph 9 of the Introduction, on Page 4, he writes:
I make myself available to Ministers, officials, the political parties throughout the UK, pressure groups and other outside bodies, the media and of course members of the public on reasonable requirements, and give many lectures and speeches on the subject of terrorism. Generally the political parties have been ready to engage in discussion with me, hopefully for the better performance of my task as well as to assist a more accurate approach to political debate. I regret that my letters to the then Shadow Home Secretary have gone largely unanswered, and that in his undoubtedly hectic life he was able only to offer me an appointment as long as nearly 12 months distant from my first request.
It doesn't exactly inspire one about the commitment and competence of the Cameron Dream Team or whatever schoolboy nickname they have this week.
