In the UK a 41-year-old man has been arrested over a cyber attack on the website of the British Home Secretary Theresa May. He was arrested in a joint operation by Scotland Yard and local officers on Tuesday morning in Wedgewood Road.

The man, who has not been named, was arrested on suspicion of assisting or encouraging crime contrary to the Serious Crime Act 2007. He was taken to a local police station and bailed to return in mid-December, pending further inquiries.

Computers, telephones and media storage devices were seized from his home, according to police. Detective Inspector Jason Tunn, from the Metropolitan Police’s eCrime Unit (PCeU), said, “The activity this morning demonstrates the commitment of the PCeU and our colleagues to combat cyber criminality anywhere within the UK and take action against those responsible. Assisting and encouraging cyber crime is a serious matter and I would advise all persons to consider their actions and any possible future consequences prior to posting any material online.”

Police believe that Man is arrested in Stoke-on-Trent on tuesday is an Anonymous supporter or member of any other online activist group.

May's website was attacked earlier this year as part of Operation Trial At Home, an Anonymous backed effort to raise awareness about ongoing extradition controversies, including those affecting Richard O'Dwyer and Gary McKinnon.

The Home Secretary halted proceedings against Mr McKinnon last month after psychiatrists said there was a high risk the Asperger’s sufferer would commit suicide in an American prison.