Tories split on support for new anti-terror laws

A serious split opened among the Tories today over whether to back or oppose Labour's new anti-terror laws.

Michael Howard was due to make a decision at the shadow cabinet this afternoon - but sources said the meeting could be postponed.

An array of leading shadow ministers want to oppose Charles Clarke's plan to impose home arrest on British citizens without a trial.

But one shadow cabinet figure said there were fears that Mr Howard wanted to take a compromise line to avoid being accused of going soft on terrorism.