Parliament facing autumn recall

Parliament could be recalled this autumn to begin consideration of a raft of new anti-terrorist measures.

The prime minister has announced plans for a range of new rules to tackle those who preach extremism and support terrorism.

Tony Blair said there would be a short consultation on new measures for excluding and deporting people from Britain.

And he said that while some new plans could be introduced without legislation, there was a "heavy agenda" ready for consideration.

Parliament has come under fire from sections of the media as it is currently in recess until October 10.

Critics say that at a time of national emergency, parliamentarians should be prepared to return to Westminster to pass any new legislation that might be required.

And speaking on Friday Blair indicated that his latest plans could prompt a recall of parliament ahead of schedule.

"We will consult widely on these measures, of course, including with the other political parties," Blair told journalists.

"It is evidently a heavy agenda to take forward, but it is necessary.

"And let me also again repeat and make it clear - if legislation can be made ready in time and the right consensus is achieved we are ready to recall parliament in September, at least to begin the debate over the measures."

The Conservatives have backed the government's new measures, raising the likelihood that consensus on new laws could be reached.

"We welcome the broad thrust of the government's proposals on exclusions and deportations," said shadow home secretary David Davis.

"It is vital that the home secretary is able to use his powers to deport or exclude non-UK citizens who threaten our national security – we have been calling for him to use these for some time.

"There is no reason why they cannot be applied as soon as possible."

Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy warned the government it could not necessarily count on his party's support.

However, the Lib Dems alone would not be in a position to block any new legislation.

Work to improve security in the Commons chamber had originally meant the abandonment of the September sitting of parliament this year.

And with the Liberal Democrat autumn conference due to begin on September 18, a recall of parliament could prove difficult to arrange.

However, the pressure on politicians of all parties is such that they may feel little choice but to act.

The prime minister also made a pointed defence of Charles Clarke, who has been on holiday this week.

Blair said he had been working "closely" with the home secretary in the past week.