Howard: Human rights review

Michael Howard has ordered a review of the Human Rights Act following fears that criminals are using the legislation to evade justice.

The Tory leader is said to be angered at the way asylum seekers, criminals and potential terrorists have used the act to challenge the government.

As a result he has ordered a review which could see the act being overhauled or scrapped altogether.

A spokesman for the Tory leader said: "This act is under review and we have watched how it has been implemented in ways that are not helpful in this country.

"Michael would look seriously at what could be done when he became prime minister."

The legislation, which enshrines the European convention on human rights, was introduced by Labour four years ago. Its reach extends throughout the legal system.

One senior Conservative said the courts were applying the legislation in "a twisted fashion" - resulting in a skewed "rights culture".

Prisoners have successfully sued the government for failing to provide them with enough mental stimulation while in jail.

The legislation also makes is difficult for the government to refuse asylum to foreign HIV sufferers who face a bleak future without life-savings drugs in their home country.

Terror suspects held without trial have also attempted to use the legislation to overturn their incarceration.

The former home secretary has asked David Davis to lead the review of the wide-ranging legislation.

Last week Howard sought to put law and order centre-stage as he vowed to crackdown on crime and anti-social behaviour.