Basher for Liberty news 17

A debate on civil liberties was held. DD and the Graun's Henry Porter spoke for the forces of light. The dark side was represented by Denis MacShane and David Aaronovitch. Audio here.

Basher finally got to debate 42 days with a government minister - Tony McNulty on Sky. Video here.

Ian Jack wonders who is going to come second in the by-election. Most likely the Greens he says.

Bob Geldof wrote a piece attacking the erosion of civil liberties.  He's now part of the Davis campaign.

Paul Kingsnorth wrote the latest piece on Comment is Free's series on liberty and what it means to the great and good. Kingsnorth says it's all down to the social contract, which he hasn't signed and so he shouldn't be bound by it.

Spy Blog notes that the Home Secretary has stated that there are no legal restrictions on photography in public places. That's the good news. The bad news is that she says that police are free to harass photographers anyway. Rule of law? Never heard of it.

Human Rights Watch says the 42 days bill will undermine counterterrorism efforts.

A Belfast blogger was cleared of intimidation in a victory for free speech.