Policy Directed surveillance and covert human intelligence sources policy

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1. Policy statement

Reasons for introducing the Policy

To explain legal requirements and act as a brief guide to the legislation for Council staff.

Policy Statement

The purpose of this procedure is to ensure that the Council complies with the requirements of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (‘RIPA’) and that appropriate authorisations are given for directed surveillance and the use of covert human intelligence sources (‘CHIS’).

RIPA, together with its associated regulatory framework, provides a valuable protection to the Council if directed or covert surveillance is carried out, and may protect the Council from the risks of civil action in the event of a breach of a person’s human rights. In addition, its correct application may ensure that evidence gained by such means will be admitted in evidence more readily in the criminal courts.

The policy sets out the tests which must be applied in deciding whether authorisation is appropriate. RIPA now restricts directed surveillance to serious criminal cases or to tobacco or licensing offences related to children. Authorisations for directed surveillance or covert human intelligence sources are not effective until approved by a Justice of the Peace (Magistrate).

Terms Explained

These are set out in the policy at appropriate points in the context of the legislation.

How will we go about it?

The policy has been approved by members, and senior and relevant staff have been trained on its implementation and will be provided with regular refresher training.

When this policy has been published and will be reviewed

Policy published 20 January 2022 Last updated 1 February 2022