PRESTON MP Audrey Wise has come under fire from the local Conservative Association for voting against tougher measures to crack down on IRA terrorism.

Mrs Wise, together with 17 other Labour members, objected to the Bill which allows police the right to search people and vehicles at will, as well as seal off designated areas.

Paul Gray, a Prospective Parliamentary Candidate and member of the Preston Conservative Association, attacked the MP's decision, calling it irresponsible. He demanded an explanation, saying: "The people of Preston have a right to know why, in the light of renewed violence by the IRA, Audrey Wise chose not to support measures which would assist the police in fighting terrorism."

The Labour MP defended her actions, saying parts of the Bill, such as stop and search tactics, were an infringement of civil liberties: "Members of the public would be unaware they were in a designated area, and a refusal to be searched by a police officer would result in an offence." Home Secretary Michael Howard said the measures would be of 'real practical benefit to the police in protecting the public'.

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