Defending Democracy Taskforce

Lord Goodman of Wycombe Excerpts

Monday 6th January 2025 Lords Chamber

Asked by

[Lord Goodman of Wycombe]

To ask His Majesty’s Government, further to the answer by Lord Hanson of Flint on 20 November (HL Deb col 207), what progress the Defending Democracy Taskforce has made with its review of security and counter-terrorism.

[The Minister of State, Home Office (Lord Hanson of Flint) (Lab)]

As a resident of Wales, I endorse the comments made about Baroness Randerson and her service to Wales and the Wales Office in particular.

The counter-extremism review concluded over the summer and Ministers are now considering the recommendations. The Defending Democracy Taskforce will drive a whole-of-government approach to a full range of threats to our democracy, which includes ensuring that elected representatives can carry out their roles safely. Since July, we have been learning the lessons of the general election also, with a particular view towards the upcoming local elections in May. The Government will update the House on that work in due course.

[Lord Goodman of Wycombe (Con)]

I am grateful to the Minister for that Answer. What assessment has the task force made of whether any foreign state or states seek to promote the introduction in Britain of a blasphemy law, which would be—and I hope the Government will agree on this point—completely unacceptable?

[Lord Hanson of Flint (Lab)]

The Government keep under review at all times the influence and threats from foreign powers. I will reflect on the particular point the noble Lord mentioned, but we are very clear that foreign influence on UK government policy, or the undermining of elections, is not acceptable.