CHARLES CLARKE is planning to fast-track the expulsion of preachers of hate by offering them the chance to be deported rather than face months in custody and possible trial on terror charges.

Officials will use new immigration rules against extremist clerics alleged to have been stirring up hatred. Identity documents and visa permits will be scrutinised to discover if they can be swiftly deported. Immigration staff have been asked to check the files of those on a list of foreign imams whom ministers want expelled.

In pledging swift action, the Home Secretary used the same phrase as the Prime Minister in saying that since the July 7 bombings “the rules of the game have changed”. The Home Secretary said that the measures, expected to include powers to deport those who glorify suicide bombers, would come shortly.

Writing in the London Evening Standard, he said: “This week I will be publishing, and then acting upon, ways of dealing with preachers of intolerance and hatred and extremists who try to exploit the openness of our society to oppress others. We must protect the traditions of tolerance that we have established . . . and that means cracking down on those who preach intolerance and abuse free speech to justify terrorism, advocate violence or foster hatred.”

Mr Clarke and his officials are studying responses to a consultation paper giving the Government more reasons to deport, or exclude, a foreigner. A consultation, which ended on Friday, has been held on whether grounds for deportation should include fomenting terrorism, justifying terrorism, fostering hatred and expressing views considered extreme and in conflict with a culture of tolerance. Mr Clarke is expected to announce in the next few days that the proposals will become part of immigration rules. Legislation is not needed for new rules on deportation.

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