Can the British Government still suspend Habeas Corpus?

Question

I've been reading about how it was suspended in and around 1818 but I was wondering if the Government can still suspend it or if it can't.

Answer 1

Abe Lincoln suspended it during the American Civil War, so any government can, if it is for national security at the time.

Answer 2

The way the British Press operates - we are all guilty until proven innocent anyway !!

Answer 3

I cant see how they can. The HRA codifies several rights. No imprisonment without trial, no punishment without law, right to a fair trial etc.

I never heard of it being suspended in 1818 but when it suits the Government they suspend the most basic of rights when scared.

The present 42 day detention attempt for example.

Internment in N Ireland for another.

Implication in rendition flights by the US in full failure to observe even the most basic human rights.

We also claim to be "so enlightened" that we will not deport or extradite a person to a country where they will not face a fair trial but are happy to send our citizens to the US without any clear rights under a reciprocal agreement.

So... you may be right. Our Government may indeed legislate to deprive us of our common law rights should they feel the need and there is not a d**n thing we can do about it.

... rant over ... xx VP

Answer 4

Habeas Corpus is a type of writ demanding that a prisoner is brought before a Court.  The Government is currently trying to extend the time for which a suspect may be held before the police have to present him before the magistrates.

Answer 5

Yes and any other law that takes their fancy - no need for evidence or charges - it's turned into Alice in Wonderland here.

Answer 6

Who's gonna stop 'em, you?  I don't think so...

Answer 7

Yes.The EU has made it clear that the legal system known as Corpus Juris is to be introduced throughout the EU.The EU now calls the shots in 80% of our laws,once the Lisbon Treaty is implememted the EU can do what they wish.It is they who pull Gordon Browns strings.

http://www.caef.org.uk/cj44.htm

Answer 8

Yes, anytime they want to.