A man, granted asylum after fleeing a repressive regime, was arrested a year later under the Terrorism Act. Imprisoned for two years on the basis of 'secret evidence', his family was moved around various hostels in a city where they knew no-one. Despite this, he has never been charged and neither has he been told what the charges are against him. Now living with his family in a white working-class suburb, where they are frequently subjected to racist attacks, his life is severely restricted. Legally compelled to stay within a small defined radius, he wears an electronic tag, is not permitted out after dark and has to request Home Office permission for many activities, including accompanying his wife to antenatal appointments. He is prohibited from explaining to his neighbours why groups of heavily armed police may burst into his home at any time of day or night.

Terrorism is a form of bullying - an abuse of power, aimed at achieving change by harming and perhaps what is worse, by threatening harm. An offence against humanity, it treats people as a means to an end. But treating suspects as if they are guilty, before charges are made, surely begs ethical questions.

Dr Mahnaz Hashmi, Consultant Psychiatrist, Hertfordshire, and Gavin Fairbairn, Running Stream Professor of Ethics and Language, Leeds Metropolitan University .