Revisions to the extradition police codes of practice

This consultation is of interest to the police, the legal profession and civil liberties organisations. It seeks views on a revised draft codes of conduct for the police about extradition processes.

The consultation seeks views from practitioners and other interested parties as to whether the draft codes are correct and applicable for operational demands, while protecting the rights of individuals sought for extradition.

The draft is a revision of existing codes of practice that govern the exercise of police powers in UK extradition cases (this is where the UK is arresting, transporting or detaining an individual subject to a valid extradition request). The revisions also take account of responses to the previous consultation.

The revised draft reflects changes made to the relevant PACE codes and the changes arising from the new power of arrest brought about by the Extradition (Provisional Arrest) Act 2020. While police practice is always to refer to the most recent PACE codes in the context of any arrest, the amendments in the draft codes of practice have been updated to reflect the most recent amendments to PACE codes. The new power of arrest, which applies only to Part 2 of the Extradition Act 2003, is a significant revision to police powers. Compliance with these requirements should be adequately reflected and available in all police guidance and resources to ensure consistency of operational practice.

Following consultation, and any further amendments which may be considered from the consultation, the updated codes of practice will be available and published at the earliest opportunity in 2021.