The British government is slowing down a proposal that would give law enforcement sweeping power to collect electronic data as a measure to prevent terrorism. The proposal, in the Communications Data Bill, would allow the government to collect data on phone calls and other electronic communication. The government planned to put the proposal in Parliament's upcoming legislative agenda, but opted instead on Wednesday to conduct a consultation next year due to concerns about intrusive monitoring of private citizens.
"It's a sensitive issue, and there needs to be a proper public debate," a Home Office spokesman said Thursday. Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said on Wednesday the legislation is needed because of the difficulty in collecting evidence against terrorists.
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