David Davis

Ahead of a meeting between the prime minister and Michael Howard, the Conservatives have questioned the government's plans to introduce house arrest for terrorist suspects.

Home secretary Charles Clarke has faced criticism since outlining plans for "control orders" which would apply to British nationals as well as foreign suspects.

Speaking earlier this week, Clarke appeared ready to make some concessions on his plans.

"I can see a case for different levels of judicial involvement in different levels in control orders," he said.

"If there was to be a deprivation of liberty, a different level of judicial involvement might be required."

Tony Blair is set to hold talks with the Tory leader next Thursday in a bid to develop a cross-party consensus.

The move has taken on added urgency since the law lords ruled that the current policy of detention without trial for foreign suspects was illegal.

Blair and Howard are also expected to discuss the use in court of phone tap evidence, a move that has been backed by Metropolitan Police commissioner Sir Ian Blair.

In further developments on Friday, shadow home secretary David Davis expressed renewed criticism of the government's plans.

The Daily Mail had reported that Clarke faced opposition to his policies from MI6, MI5 and chief constables.

"What on earth is Charles Clarke playing at?" asked Davis.

"He delivers a proposal which not only undermines 500 years of British civil liberties but also lacks the support of the police and security services.

"The reason for this lack of support is clear: House arrest might allow the control of one known terrorist but it may well recruit 10 unknown terrorists. 

"If he did this against the recommendation of the security services then bringing such a proposal to the House of Commons was improper.

"If he did it without consulting them it was incompetence."