11. Duration of authorisations for the conduct and use of Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS)
A written authorisation, unless renewed, will cease to have effect at the end of a period of twelve months (four months in the case of a juvenile CHIS) beginning with the day on which it took effect being the date of authorisation by the JP.
Renewals
Authorisations for the conduct and use of CHIS can be renewed, the same criteria applying as on first authorisation. Applications for renewal must be made on the appropriate form as set out at CHIS/3Renewal of authorisation to use Covert Human Intelligence Sources and submitted to the authorising officer. However, an application for renewal should not be made until shortly before the authorisation period is coming to an end.
An authorisation may be renewed more than once – provided it continues to meet the criteria for authorisation. Renewals must also be approved by a JP before they can take effect.
Reviews
Regular reviews of authorisations should be undertaken. The results of the review should be recorded on CHIS/2Reviewing the use of Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) and a copy filed on the central record of authorisations. If the surveillance provides access to confidential information or involves collateral intrusion frequent reviews will be required. The authorising officer should determine how often a review should take place.
Before an authorising officer renews an authorisation he must be satisfied that a review has been carried out of:
- The use made of the source during the period authorised
- The tasks given to the source
- The information obtained from the use or conduct of the source
If the authorising officer is satisfied that the criteria necessary for the initial authorisation continue to be met, he may renew it in writing for a further period.
Renewals must also be approved by a JP before they can take effect.
Cancellations
The officer who granted or renewed the authorisation MUST cancel it if he/she is satisfied that
- the use or conduct of the source no longer satisfies the criteria for authorisation, or
- that the arrangements for the source's case no longer exist
Requests for cancellation will be made on the appropriate form as set out at CHIS/4Cancellation of Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) and submitted to the authorising officer for authorisation of the cancellation. The cancellation process does not involve a JP.