More Than 60% Say No To 42 Days

Nearly two thirds of people do not support the Government's move to extend pre-charge detention for terror suspects to 42 days.

Despite protestations from Gordon Brown that a majority of Britons believe the current 28 day limit should be lengthened, a poll for the Joseph Rowntree Reform Trust has found 61% believe six weeks is too long.

The ICM survey of 1,000 found 32% thought the current limit ought to remain, while six per cent suggested it should be reduced, to just four days.

The findings have been published on the eve of the Haltemprice and Howden by-election, sparked by the resignation of shadow home secretary David Davis, so he could stand for re-election on a civil liberties platform in the wake of the 42-day controversy.

Poll Results
How long do you think people who may be innocent or guilty of a terrorist offence should be held in detention for questioning before they are charged or released?

Up to four days 6%
Up to one week 10%
Up to two weeks 13%
Up to four weeks 32%
Up to six weeks 36%

ICM Research interviewed a random sample of 1021 adults aged 18+ by telephone between 4-6 July 2008.

See the full article at Sky News