The man dubbed Osama bin Laden's right-hand man has been released on bail from a prison in the United Kingdom.

Britian's Special Immigration Appeals Commission decided radical cleric Abu Qatada cannot be deported from Britain to face terrorism charges in Jordan.

Britain has attempted to expel the Palestinian-born Jordanian cleric since 2001. He was convicted in Jordan of terror plots in 1999 and 2000.

But Judge John Mitting said he was not convinced the cleric would receive a fair trial, despite assurances from Jordan over how his case would be handled.

Under bail, Qatada must observe a 16-hour curfew, wear an electronic anklet, and cannot use the Internet.