Congressman offers advice on "military commissions". (Washington Pulse).

At the request of Secretary of Defense Donald H. Rumsfeld, Rep. Steve Buyer (R-Ind.), joined a working group of eight lawyers to discuss the details regarding the operation of the military "commissions of terrorist suspects held at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba. The word "commissions," is a replacement for "tribunals," and a Pentagon source said the name was changed so as to remove any association with the post-World War II Nuremberg tribunals, in Germany.

Buyer, who served as counsel to the Western Enemy Prisoner of War camp during the Gulf War, said, "The accused will be afforded similar due process that was given to World War II saboteurs--such as a right to an attorney and the right to view evidence against them. But because the very security of this nation rests in these trials, prosecutors will have a freer hand than they would in a civilian criminal court. In addition, the suspects' right to appeal will be extremely limited."

According to Buyer's web site, viewing of the proceedings should be limited, and television cameras should be barred. "If prosecutors wish to present classified material, then the courtroom would be closed. Conviction of any crime would requite a two-thirds majority of the tribunal," Buyer said. Only a unanimous panel of seven members could impose death sentences, and there will be a review panel for any conviction.