It seems to me, Keith, that you have become so focussed on a single (admittedly serious and important) issue, as to have failed to think it through to its logical, and dangerous conclusion.

The police are supposedly the experts on all forms of crime detection and prevention.

If we give them the power they seek with respect to this issue, it will be more difficult to refuse the next, and subsequent demands of this type.

Initially, these will most likely be similar latitude in cases of murder and armed robbery, and later extend to less serious crimes.

This is what I mean when I use the term "erosion of civil rights", a gradual wearing down until ultimately we have a truly police state.

When the day comes that they say it is now necessary for all police to be armed, will you still say "let them have that power because they are the experts".

I have asked you several times to state clearly where YOU would draw the line, but you have chosen not to respond.

I will tell you clearly where I draw the line, and it is right here, before the process gets started.

Don T.