LONDON, March 29 (UPI) -- Britain will step up efforts to tackle terrorism by creating a new division in the Home Office.
"Our counter-terrorism capabilities are among the best in the world. However, the continuing and growing threat from terrorism means the government must develop and improve its counter-terrorism and security capabilities," Prime Minister Tony Blair said Thursday in announcing the launch of the Office of Security and Counter-Terrorism.
Specifically, a new ministerial committee on security and terrorism will meet regularly to share information on security issues, while a national security board chaired by the home secretary will be established to study threats to Britain.
"All those working in the field of counter-terrorism, particularly the police, security and intelligence agencies, have worked unstintingly to protect the country from the threats we face," Blair said.
Other changes include setting up a new Ministry of Justice, which would provide a stronger focus on the criminal-justice system and reduce re-offending.
The ministry will take over the responsibilities of the Department for Constitutional Affairs and the National Offender Management Service.
The prison and probation services, normally under the DCA and the NOMS, will fall under the new ministry's portfolio. It will have lead responsibility for criminal law and sentencing. The reforms take effect immediately.
