THINK YOU LIVE IN A FREE COUNTRY? THINK AGAIN

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A wake-up call for a sleepwalking nation, Taking Liberties is a gripping exploration of New Labour’s Orwellian legacy. In anticipation of Tony Blair’s stand down this summer Taking Liberties examines the government’s systematic erosion of our civil liberties since 1997 through sometimes shocking, always true, real life stories.

Taking Liberties takes the reader on a journey from the initial euphoria of New Labour’s victory over the Tories to the New Labour of today with its bloodied hands and soiled reputation. Dealing with the spectres of torture, detention without trial, rendition and the gradual erosion of our democratic rights, Taking Liberties examines Blair’s legacy through the magnifying glass of particular events including September 11th and the more every day, but no less pervasive, ASBO.

The book includes expert contributions from the likes of Shami Chakrabarti of Liberty, Kate Allen of Amnesty International and QCs Philippe Sands and Michael Mansfield and commentary from senior political commentators - including Boris Johnson and Clare Short. Through these and further contributions from ordinary members of the public who have felt the increasingly heavy hand of the law, Taking Liberties questions the strength of New Labour’s democratic vision and illustrates the country’s growing disillusionment in the government.

Using case studies such as Moazzem Begg, 7/7 survivor Rachel North and David Bermingham of the NatWest 3, Taking Liberties proves that the popular cry - ‘if you’ve done nothing wrong, you’ve got nothing to fear’ - just doesn’t stand anymore. Whilst Atkins’ tone is alternately humorous and acerbic, his point is unequivocal: we need to act before we lose our basic human rights.

The book, published on 25 May 2007, will be followed by Taking Liberties, the film, released in UK cinemas on 8 June by Revolver Entertainment. With contributions from politicians, comedians, human rights lawyers and celebrities, the film will echo the book in calling for Tony Blair to be brought to account, and is brought to the screen by the producer of Michael Moore’s Fahrenheit 9/11 and Bowling for Columbine.

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