Study shows human rights laws have 'negative and dangerous impact' in the UK

Former Home Secretary and legal experts raise concerns

A new study has revealed that human rights laws in the UK are being criticized for having a "negative and dangerous" impact on the country. Former Home Secretary Lord Howard has called for Parliament to reassert its responsibilities in light of what he describes as the "continual expansion of the judiciary."

Controversy over human rights legislation introduced by Tony Blair

The human rights legislation, introduced by Sir Tony Blair in 1998, has faced scrutiny from critics who argue that it has hindered efforts to crack down on small boat crossings and to deport migrants to Rwanda. The legislation, which incorporated the European Convention on Human Rights into domestic law, has been the subject of debate for its implications on various legal cases.

Challenges in law enforcement and government decision-making

The study highlights instances where the human rights laws have posed challenges in law enforcement and government decision-making. For example, there have been concerns raised about the ability to arrest or convict protestors for obstructing highways under the current legal framework. Additionally, the deportation of a violent criminal to Zimbabwe was reportedly blocked due to concerns about the adequacy of the country's health service.

Call for Parliament to 'restore the constitution'

The Policy Exchange paper, which raises concerns about the impact of human rights laws on governance, suggests that these laws have distorted government decision-making and pose a significant challenge to the country's constitution. Lord Howard emphasized the need for Parliament to address these issues and restore what he sees as the rightful balance of power between the judiciary, Parliament, and the electorate.

Influence of human rights laws on English judiciary

Sir Patrick Elias, a former Lord Justice of Appeal, noted that the focus on human rights in English law, following the Human Rights Act, has increased the power and influence of both the European Court of Human Rights and the English judiciary. This observation underscores the ongoing debate surrounding the impact of human rights legislation on the legal landscape in the UK.