The Home Office is still trying to decide where to detain the first group of Islamic extremists who face arrest in Charles Clarke's promised crackdown on the preachers of hate.

There is pressure on the Home Secretary to order the raids to begin but the prison population is at a record level, and officials do not want the suspects held together.
Arrests had been expected by now after the Home Secretary said that he would move swiftly against those who foment, justify or glorify terrorist violence. Last night the Home Office would not comment on the reasons for delay.