Independent Terror Reviewer Calls for New Legislation

Photographers take pictures outside British police headquarters to protest against new anti-terror legislation that they claim could hamper journalists from taking pictures at public demonstrations, in central London, Monday, Feb. 16, 2009. Photographers say part of the new counterterrorism measure will give police the right to stop anyone taking pictures of police officers or the armed services. The measure takes effect Monday. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis)

LONDON— Britain’s terror legislation watchdog says the country needs a new law on monitoring online communications, arguing a fresh approach is necessary to address the concerns of both law enforcement and privacy advocates.

The independent reviewer of terror legislation, David Anderson, on Thursday proposed a new blueprint for surveillance laws, saying that the existing framework satisfies neither security services nor privacy activists. The landmark 300-page report argues that a comprehensive and comprehensible law is needed to replace a multitude of current powers.

Anderson concludes existing laws have not kept pace with technology and are confusing. Among Anderson’s suggestions is the creation of a new intelligence auditor to oversee novel, contentious and sensitive requests for interception of communications.

The government ordered the review as part of legislation fast-tracked through Parliament last year.