Counter Terrorism Policing response to Home Office announcement on terrorism sentencing/ CT funding

The Head of Counter Terrorism Policing, Assistant Commissioner Neil Basu said: “Today’s announcement of additional counter terrorism funding is gratefully received, and I am pleased the government is willing to help us strengthen the world class CT network protecting the UK.

“Similarly, we support any change in legislation which will ensure dangerous terrorists serve sentences proportionate to their crimes. 

“But we have seen our demand increase by around a third since 2017, and the only way we are going to turn the tide is by throwing our support behind the only strategy which attempts to divert people away from violent extremism in the first place - Prevent.

“Whether Prevent is attempting to stop someone following a path towards terrorism, or hoping to rehabilitate and de-radicalise those who have already been convicted, it is our best hope in reducing the threat in the long term.”