Calls for ban on media to protect nation

SECURITY chiefs could be given new powers to ban the media from reporting certain threats to the nation and police operations, it was claimed today.

The Intelligence and Security Committee is said to be pushing for new laws stopping the publication or broadcasting of stories deemed against the interest of national security. They also want bans on reporting police probes which have security implications.

Under the current system, the media can be asked to suppress information which could compromise military and intelligence operations or lead to damage to the critical national infrastructure or endanger lives.

The ISC is said to have been alarmed at reporters being told of an operation to arrest Muslim extremists suspected of plotting to kidnap and execute a British serviceman last year.

The new proposals may be included in an ISC report due before the end of the year, according to The Independent.