Yard 'secretly' brings in stop and search

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The revelation comes amid controversy over plans to give officers "wartime" rights to stop and question anybody they choose about their identity or business. If the proposal is implemented, anyone refusing to cooperate could be fined up to £5,000.

The widespread use of anti-terror powers was revealed in papers for a Metropolitan Police Authority meeting.

At present, under Section 44 of the Terrorism Act 2000, officers have the power to stop and search members of the public or vehicles, even if they have no grounds for suspicion.

However, suspects must be walking or driving in an area designated as being at risk of a terrorist attack.

But the MPA report says Section 44 is being used more widely in the "Safer Neighbourhood programme", which targets antisocial behaviour, criminal damage and graffiti.

Gareth Crossman, policy director of civil rights group Liberty, said: "They are admitting using exceptional powers, which the legislation says are specifically for terroristrelated activity. It flies in the face of the legislation."

Home Secretary John Reid wants to grant police officers "wartime" rights to stop and question anyone about suspected terrorism regardless of whether they are in an area regarded at risk of an attack or not.