Review of the operation of Schedule 7

This consultation sought views on proposals to review the operation of Schedule 7 of the Terrorism Act 2000. It ran from 13 September until 6 December 2012.

We would like to thank those who responded to this consultation. By doing so they will have helped to ensure that it is used effectively, fairly and proportionately.

After careful consideration of the responses we are proposing a number of amendments to the operation of Schedule 7. This will require changes to primary legislation and a new statutory Code of Practice for examining officers. We believe these changes will reduce potential for the powers to be operated in a way that may interfere with individuals’ rights unnecessarily or disproportionately – whilst still retaining the operational effectiveness of the provisions to counter-terrorism and protect the public.

Amendments to Schedule 7 have been included in the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Bill (‘the Bill’) which was introduced in Parliament on 9 May. Progress of the Bill can be tracked online.