This from the Observer, today:-
“… the Observer has learned that defence firms are working closely with UK armed forces and contemplating a “militarisation” strategy to counter the threat of civil disorder.
The trade group representing the military and security industry says firms are in negotiation with senior officers over possible orders for armoured vehicles, body scanners and better surveillance equipment.
The move coincides with government-backed attempts to Continue reading
If you’re concerned that in spying – there’s no better word for it – on its own citizens, the UK is plumbing unsuspected depths, then I recommend reading this article in today’s Guardian. In essence, the police are planning to set up a camera system whereby up to 50 million car licence plates a day would be recorded and held in databases for up to 5 years, allowing them to reconstruct the journeys of pretty much anyone they like. That rumbling noise you can hear is George Orwell, rotating in his grave…
In addition to this, there is also legislation proposed to give government agencies access to our telephone call records, texts and emails, and I have little doubt that these plans will come to fruition (though if anyone wants my Spam they’re welcome to it!). Given the talent that government agencies have for losing data in wholesale quantities, with the potential for it to fall into the wrong hands, this doesn’t fill me with confidence.
I used to take the view that if I have nothing to hide, I have nothing to fear, but having been DNA tested for a mere ‘kin motoring offence, I no longer feel that way.
How long, I wonder, until the concept of innocent until proven guilty is turned on its head here, as it already has been at Guantanamo Bay?
Ron's Rants... 