In 2010 legislation was passed removing that power from government ministers for the future, but it did not affect the Hindawi decision.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

Hindawi became eligible for parole in 2001 after serving one third of his sentence, and must be released on parole no later than 2016.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

Ibrahim Malik al-Hindawi, chief judge of Karkh Civil Court, was killed by gunfire from another vehicle as he drove through western Baghdad's Amriya neighborhood.

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He added that the plot had caused a diplomatic row when it emerged that Hindawi had been trained by Syrian intelligence, who had also provided the bomb.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

Then, in November 2009, former justice secretary Jack Straw refused to accept a Parole Board recommendation that Hindawi be released - a decision confirmed by his successor, Ken Clarke.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

He said the Parole Board had found that Hindawi had shown insight into his offending behaviour and remorse for all his intended victims, in particular his fiancee and her daughter.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

The BBC's Danny Shaw says it seems this ruling will pave the way for Hindawi's release and eventual deportation back to Jordan, and there will be further legal submissions on the case next week.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi

In the latest legal battle, Tim Owen QC, appearing for Hindawi, told Lord Justice Thomas and Mrs Justice Nicola Davies that the justice secretary had been "implacably opposed" to Hindawi's release throughout the parole process.

BBC: Undated file photo of Jordanian Nezar Hindawi