Legal

The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) was introduced to ensure that powers used to investigate individuals are used with proper regard to human rights.  The Act covers the following matters which a Local Authorities may use when conducting an investigation:

(i) Covert surveillance in the case of specific operations;

(ii) The use of covert human intelligence services (CHIS) (eg agents, informants, under cover officers); and

(iii) Acquisition and disclosure of communication data.

The Council has adopted its Policy based on the requirements of the Regluation of Investigatory Powers Act and the Home Office Codes of Practice.  This requires the Council to have in place procedures which ensure that when surveillance is necessary it will be properly authorised and proportionate to the action being undertaken.

Policy - the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA)