13/09/2002 (Agence Europe) - Ahead of the EU's meeting with John Ashcroft, the President of the EP's Liberal group, Graham Watson (UK), welcomed the strengthening of EU/US cooperation in the "fight against crime and terrorism. However, one year on from 11 September, we ought just to pause for a moment to assess whether the measures already adopted and under consideration are appropriate, measured and proportionate to the terrorist threat. It is perfectly possible to be tough on terrorism and true to our treaty commitments on civil liberties. I am concerned that the pendulum may have swung too far to the detriment of our fundamental freedoms and rights. In particular, Justice Ministers should resist pressure from their Prime Ministers and the United States to agree a deal on exchange of information which could breach our legislation on privacy."