Intelligence-led counter-terrorism: a brief analysis of the UK domestice intelligence system's response to 9/11 and the implications

Gregory, Frank (2005) Intelligence-led counter-terrorism: a brief analysis of the UK domestice intelligence system's response to 9/11 and the implications Spain. Real Instituto Elcano de Estudios Internacionales y Estratégicos

Abstract

Theme: This Paper looks at the UK’s domestic intelligence system’s response to 9/11 and offers some preliminary comments on the implications of the 7/7 attacks in London.

Summary: This paper discusses intelligence and domestic counter-terrorism in the UK, post 9/11, with an emphasis on intelligence-led counter-terrorism. It also offers a tentative, initial analysis of the implications of the 7 July London bombings, where there is a presumption of a lack of prior intelligence.

Analysis: Introduction
The significance of intelligence in counter-terrorism stems from three main drivers: (1) its role in pre-emption and disruption of terrorist activity; (2) its role in post-incident investigations; and (3) its contribution to preventive/protective security measures. This discussion will focus mainly on intelligence and domestic counter-terrorism in the UK, post 9/11, where the emphasis is on intelligence-led counter-terrorism. The paper also offers a tentative, initial analysis of the implications of the London bombings of 7 July 2005 where there is a presumption of a lack of prior intelligence.

The paper will not consider the intense UK debate about intelligence and the evidence for an Iraqi WMD programme, as that has limited relevance to a discussion on intelligence relating to terrorist suspects or facilities within UK national territory because these can be subjected to direct surveillance and investigative actions.

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