Government ‘prying’ may be worth it

Last week’s terrorist atrocity in London has re-opened the debate around civil liberties and the extent to which the British people should live their lives secure from unwanted intrusion by the authorities.

Mass murderer Khalid Masood used the social networking programme WhatsApp moments before his killing spree but the security forces cannot access his messages to find out with whom he was communicating and what he said.

His words in those final seconds could provide vital information about whether he had accomplices and may even prevent future attacks.

Naturally, the Government and its agencies are determined to have sight of such material, deeming it essential for the defence of the realm.

Others, however, see it very differently, stating the authorities have no right to see private messages, which can be open to out-of-context misinterpretation and abuse.

As one commentator said, it is similar to handing the Government the keys to your home so they can let themselves in whenever they feel the need.

Such hyperbole is ill-advised and home secretary Amber Rudd made it clear the necessary checks and balances would be put in place.

For many, civil liberties are worth dying for, but where is the line drawn between protecting them and safeguarding innocent lives?