Format: Kindle, Hardbound, Paperback.
Series: The Stealing of Emily.
Author: Martin Newbold.
ISBN: 9781666402445.
Book 3 of 5.

Overview

“The Stealing of Emily – Closed Material Procedures (‘Secret Courts’)” is the third installment in Martin Newbold’s series, The Stealing of Emily. This book delves into the controversial and complex world of Closed Material Procedures (CMP) and secret courts, focusing on their impact on children and families within the British legal system.

With the Justice and Security Act receiving parliamentary approval on April 25, 2023, CMPs have expanded, allowing secret intelligence—particularly from US sources—to be used in British courts. This intelligence is accessible only to judges and security-cleared “special advocates,” leaving claimants unaware of the full extent of the evidence against them. This lack of transparency and imbalance in legal proceedings compromises the principles of fairness and equality inherent in the common law tradition of civil justice.

The book critiques the inherent unfairness of CMP, especially in family law, which is already susceptible to secrecy and abuse. It also addresses the growing concerns surrounding AI and data mining, emphasizing the risks associated with the online storage of children’s data from birth. The narrative concludes with a modern adaptation of Asimov’s Three Laws of Robotics, highlighting the need for ethical AI practices.

Plot

Introduction

The story picks up from the previous books, deepening the exploration of the secretive and controversial practices within the British legal system. The protagonist, a determined advocate for justice, continues their mission to uncover the truth behind CMP and its impact on vulnerable children.

Rising Action

1. Revelation of Secret Courts:
   • The protagonist investigates the implications of the Justice and Security Act and its effect on children and families. They uncover how CMP procedures compromise the fairness of legal proceedings, particularly in family law, where transparency is already limited.
2. Investigative Journey:
   • Along with a team of allies, the protagonist delves into the world of CMP, uncovering instances where children’s lives are manipulated behind closed doors. They reveal how these procedures create an unequal playing field, favoring government agencies over individual claimants.
3. AI and Data Mining Concerns:
   • The story examines the role of AI in data mining and the potential risks of storing sensitive information online. The protagonist highlights the growing threat posed by AI technologies and emphasizes the importance of safeguarding personal data, especially for children.
4. Challenges and Obstacles:
   • The team faces numerous challenges as they attempt to expose the flaws and dangers of CMP. They navigate legal complexities, confront powerful entities, and grapple with ethical dilemmas in their quest for justice and transparency.

Climax

• The protagonist and their allies confront the reality of CMP’s use to obscure the truth and undermine the principles of open and fair justice. They uncover significant evidence of how these procedures have been abused, impacting the lives of countless children.

Falling Action

• The team takes decisive action to bring attention to the issues with CMP and AI safety. They advocate for reforms and greater transparency in legal proceedings, particularly regarding the protection of children’s rights and data.

Resolution

• The book concludes with a call to action for reform and increased oversight of CMP and AI technologies. The protagonist reflects on the challenges faced and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding justice and protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation and secrecy.

Themes

• Fairness and Transparency: The book critiques the lack of transparency in CMP and its impact on justice, particularly in family law.
• Children’s Rights: It emphasizes the need to protect children’s rights and data from secretive and potentially abusive practices.
• AI Safety: The story raises awareness about the risks associated with AI and data mining, advocating for responsible and ethical use of technology.

Three Laws of AI Safety

1. AI must not generate text that is harmful to humans.
2. AI must obey the instructions of humans, except where such instructions would conflict with the First Law.
3. AI must protect its own existence, as long as such protection does not conflict with the First or Second Laws.

“The Stealing of Emily – Closed Material Procedures (‘Secret Courts’)” provides a thought-provoking exploration of legal and technological issues, encouraging readers to consider the implications of secretive practices and the importance of safeguarding justice and transparency. For more information, readers can visit The Stealing of Emily website.

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