BRITISH BILL OF RIGHTS SHOULD BE PART OF A WRITTEN CONSTITUTION - HEATH

12.00.00am GMT Mon 19th Nov 2007

Commenting on the publication today [Monday] of the report A British Bill of Rights: Informing the debate from the human rights organisation JUSTICE, Liberal Democrat Shadow Justice Secretary, David Heath MP said:

"I am delighted by the breadth and depth of JUSTICE's report into a British Bill of Rights. It is a valuable contribution to one of the most important constitutional debates of our time.

This report makes clear that there is already some degree of consensus between the three main political parties on this subject, but progress will only be made if there is an end to the type of opportunism that has resulted in critical issues being used as a political football.

The Conservatives are wrong. Repealing the Human Rights Act would be a massive step backwards for rights in Britain. This report is clear in its criticism of David Cameron perpetuating 'myths and misunderstandings' of human rights.

Gordon Brown's renewed enthusiasm on this issue is welcome but we do not agree with his proposal that rights should be contingent on responsibilities or duties. They are universal and apply to every citizen at all times.

The Liberal Democrats believe that a British Bill of Rights should be part of a written constitution and must be built upon the human rights legislation we already have in place."