Includes bibliographical references and index.

The nature of rights and liberties -- The European Convention on Human Rights -- Traditional methods of protecting civil liberties in the UK -- The Human Rights Act 1998 -- Restraining freedom of expression under the law of contempt -- Restraining freedom of expression on grounds of offensiveness hate speech -- Official secrets and access to information -- Freedom of association -- Freedom of protest and assembly -- Privacy: protection for personal information -- Privacy: powers of the security and intelligence services -- Covert surveillance -- Search and seizure of property -- Bodily integrity, autonomy -- Sexual expression and identity -- Family life -- Police powers: freedom from arbitrary search, arrest and detention -- Suspects? rights in criminal investigations -- Police powers: redress for police malpractice -- Counter-terrorism laws and human rights -- Freedom of movement -- Equality: anti-discrimination legislation.

This textbook presents a highly detailed critical analysis of the legal protection of civil liberties and human rights in Britain, evaluating them in relation to the position in other jurisdictions and against a background of liberal theory.