Lessons in terror war

OUR security services have a proud record over the years of keeping us safe.

Dozens of potentially deadly terrorist incidents have been thwarted thanks to their work. But that does not mean they should be immune from scrutiny or criticism.

The report by the Intelligence and Security Committee into last year’s terror attacks in Manchester and London shows there were failings by MI5.

In particular, it did not identify and monitor Arena bomber Salman Abedi, and opportunities to prevent the attack were missed.

This will make for difficult reading for all those still affected by the outrage. They deserve to know that lessons have been learned and changes made.

The Government should also learn from the report. The stone-walling by the Home Office over the Parsons Green incident is disgraceful.

Measures to control access to chemicals used in bomb-making are out of date. Action must also be taken against social media giants who have not stopped terrorists using their platforms to plot and spread propaganda.

Not every atrocity can be prevented but we owe it to victims of past attacks that everything that can be done is being done.