Anti-terror report stresses freedom

Bangladesh Sun Monday 15th December, 2003

A report released Monday by a high-level homeland security advisory commission says improved security need not compromise civil freedoms.

The technological power this nation can bring to bear on (fighting terrorism) creates dangers, said former Virginia Gov. James Gilmore, who led the 17-member Gilmore Commission. We think there does need to be an oversight panel on the civil freedoms issue.

Gilmore said privacy protections can be maintained side by side with security improvements. He said effective oversight and long-term planning would make that possible.

The commission's report recommends creating a White House-level body to direct national homeland security initiatives.

The commission said the preparedness push must not lose momentum. Its report urges continued focus on measures that will prepare the United States for all hazards, not just terrorism.

The report encourages efforts to improve intelligence sharing between government agencies and calls for better organization of state and local law-enforcement agencies' homeland security spending.