Intercept evidence 'may never be used'

Ministers today warned that intercept evidence might never be used in terrorist trials despite claims it could help secure more convictions.

In a written parliamentary statement, Home Secretary Jacqui Smith said it remained the Government's aim to allow the use of intercept material, such as phone tap evidence, but only if a "workable" solution could be found that would avoid it overburdening MI5 and harming other serious crime investigations.

Her comments are likely to raise concerns from the Tories and the Liberal Democrats, who argue that intercept material could be a valauble weapon for prosecutors.

Practical problems include the requirement to provide lengthy transcriptions of intercept evidence.

But Ms Smith said: "The intention remains to bring forward legislation for use of intercept evidence as soon as possible."

Intercept evidence has never been allowed in court cases in the UK.

Terrorism experts have warned that even if it is permitted, it is likely to be useful in only a handful of cases each year.