UK Terror Watchdog Opposes Redefining Terrorism, Proposes New Law for Lone Attackers

Jonathan Hall KC warns against expanding terrorism laws, citing risks to free speech and resource allocation, while recommending a new offense to address mass-killing plots.

The UK’s independent reviewer of terrorism legislation, Jonathan Hall KC, has advised against broadening the definition of terrorism to include violent crimes without ideological motives.
Hall proposed a new legal offense targeting individuals planning mass killings, with penalties including life imprisonment, to address gaps in current legislation.
The Southport attack, where Axel Rudakubana killed three children and injured 10 others, prompted Prime Minister Keir Starmer to suggest revising terrorism laws to address threats from violent loners.
Hall warned that redefining terrorism could lead to overreach, misclassification of crimes, and restrictions on free speech, such as criminalizing the sharing of violent content.
The report also highlighted the need for better communication from police during high-profile cases to counter misinformation and prevent public distrust.