LONDON -- The British House of Commons' Nov. 9 rejection by 31 votes of the government's proposal that terrorist suspects could be held without trial for up to 90 days was a salutary reminder to Prime Minister Tony Blair that Parliament is not a rubber stamp organization even if he can normally command a reasonable majority. He should have learned that if he wants Parliament to approve new measures, members need to be persuaded that the measures are really necessary.
Parliament rightly takes very seriously its responsibility for upholding basic human rights and the traditions of justice and freedom in Britain. The principle of habeas corpus, under which a person must be brought before a court within 24 hours -- or as soon as is feasible -- is seen as fundamental.
There has been much concern that the threat of terrorism has already necessitated a modification of this right in the case of persons suspected of committing or planning terrorist offenses. Under the regime currently in force the police can hold suspects for 14 days. The police have recently argued that this is not long enough for them to sift through computer and telephone records, and make other checks needed before bringing charges.