They attempt to justify such a draconian step on the grounds that, as with previous cases of right-wing human rights abuses, the Salvadoran justice system has not moved quickly or effectively enough to bring the suspected murderers to trial.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: Center for Security Policy | Congress Should Not Punish The Salvadoran People For The Acts Of Extremists

Agreeing with Mr Cameron, the Lib Dem leader said the "biggest problem" was that the Human Right Act is sometimes "manipulated not just by the media but by over-cautious officials" who use it to justify their decisions.

BBC: Deputy PM Nick Clegg defends UK human rights laws