Media Coverage – 29th October 2009

Guardian Comment is Free – Big Brother, we're watching you

Our research shows that four out of five Britons believe their freedoms are disappearing. Left and right must fight this together

We advocate the return of our liberties and freedoms and we look for others to join our cause. The government's movement towards ending the ID card scheme and the Conservatives' report are encouraging; however the nature of big brother legislation is that it removes personal freedoms without the individual ever being aware they were being taken.

Big Brother Watch is here to make sure you know.

Join the debate now on Comment is Free

BBC Radio 5Live – Alex Deane interviewed by Richard Bacon

LBC 97.3FM – Dylan Sharpe interviewed by Petrie Hosken on 'The Whole Show'

Daily Mail – Councils given 'Al Capone' powers to seize public's assets

Dylan Sharpe, Campaign Director of Big Brother Watch, said: 'There is no doubt that in very serious cases, the ability to seize assets and freeze bank accounts is an invaluable tool.

'But when local authorities are given access to these heavily intrusive and far-reaching powers, they invariably end up using them for the wrong reasons.

'When we are talking about giving local authorities the ability to search through private belongings and bank accounts, these measures really ought to receive the full-scrutiny afforded by Parliament.'

He added: 'Most people will never have heard of these Accredited Financial Investigators until they return from their shopping and find them on their doorsteps.'