Huhne: RIPA review proves snoopers’ charter got out of hand

10.32.00am BST (GMT +0100) Fri 17th Apr 2009

Commenting on Government review into the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA), Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne said: "This consultation is a tacit admission by the Government that its surveillance society has got out of hand."

"For too long, powers we were told would be used to fight terrorism and organised crime have been used to spy on people's kids, pets and bins.

"Without reform, RIPA will continue to be a snoopers' charter. Surveillance powers should only be used to investigate serious crimes and must require a magistrate's warrant.

"Ministers must ensure that this consultation results in real changes and not just warm words."