The controversial control orders were introduced under the former Labour government in 2005 The government would not be forgiven if control orders on terror suspects were scrapped and there was another 7/7 style attack, Lord Carlile has warned.
The Liberal Democrat peer, the independent reviewer of UK counter-terrorism laws, told the Sun control orders were essential for security.
Lord Carlile said he agreed the orders need to be reformed.
It had been reported that a deal had been reached to scrap them but the Home Office said no decisions had been made.
Lord Carlile, who is stepping down as the government’s independent reviewer of anti-terrorism legislation, has long argued there is no alternative to control orders, which can include curfews, electronic tags, travel and mobile phone curbs.
He said that while he did not like the idea of the controversial orders, they were necessary.
“Security and police chiefs have made clear the necessity for the orders. We ignore their advice literally at our peril,” he said.
“The courage to protect public safety surely will be recognised. The failure to do so will not be forgiven if some terrible terrorism event happens.”
A review of counter-terrorism legislation was due to report before Christmas but has been delayed until early 2011 because of ongoing negotiations between ministers.
The issue has divided the coalition because the Lib Dems promised during the election to abolish control orders.
Introduced under the former Labour government in 2005, they have been strongly criticised by civil liberties campaigners.
The review, which is also looking at the 28-day limit on holding terrorism suspects before they are charged, was announced by Home Secretary Theresa May in July.
It is being overseen by former director of public prosecutions and Lib Dem peer Lord Macdonald.
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