Cameron is told to drop snooping on web users

Theresa May: questioned over the charter by Julian Huppert, Lib Dem MP
Theresa May: questioned over the charter by Julian Huppert, Lib Dem MP
SUZANNE PLUNKETT/REUTERS

Sweeping plans to hand the security services the power to snoop on e-mails, website visits and social media sites are dangerous and must be abandoned, David Cameron has been warned.

Cyber-security experts have written to the Prime Minister saying that the proposals “will be expensive, will hinder innovation and will undermine the privacy of citizens”. It is a blow to the credibility of the proposals, which are undergoing major revisions after opposition from Nick Clegg, the Deputy Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Democrats.

Theresa May, the Home Secretary, is determined that a Communications Data Bill will appear in next month’s Queen’s Speech. She is going ahead despite growing worries among Conservative and Lib Dem MPs about the billions of pounds it will cost