9Prevent
Clause 19
42.Clause 19 gives local authorities the power to refer individuals who are regarded as being vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism to the Prevent programme.
43.The Government states that this change does not mark an expansion of the scope of Prevent, but a sensible measure to streamline the process by which vulnerable individuals can be referred to ensure that they receive promptly the support they need to turn away from terrorism.27
44.Irrespective of whether this is an expansion or a streamlining measure, we remain concerned that the Prevent programme is being developed without first conducting an independent review of how the programme is currently operating. We reiterate our recommendation that the Prevent programme must be subject to independent review.28
45.We suggest the following amendment:
Amendment 19
Page 21, line 25, at end insert–
“After section 40 (Indemnification), insert–
‘40A Independent review of preventing people being drawn into terrorism and support for those vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism
(1) The Secretary of State must make arrangements for an independent review of the Government’s Prevent strategy for preventing people from being drawn into terrorism and for supporting those vulnerable to being drawn into terrorism within 6 months of this provision entering into force.
(2) The Secretary of State must report on the findings of the review. This report must be laid before Parliament within 18 months of this provision entering into force.’
Comment: this amendment inserts a new provision into the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 requiring the Secretary of State to carry out an independent review of the Prevent strategy and to report findings to Parliament.
28 HC/HL (2017–19) 1208/167, para 69
Published: 12 October 2018