RIPA 2000: consultation on revised code of practice for communications interception

The main purpose of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) is to ensure that the various investigatory techniques covered by the act are exercised lawfully and compatibly with the European Convention on Human Rights. The interception code of practice provides guidance on the interception of communications under chapter I of part I of RIPA.

Changes have recently been made to the statutory codes of practice for covert surveillance and covert human intelligence sources (which will come into force on 6 April 2010). We need to make some minor changes to ensure the interception code of practice remains consistent with the updated codes and to update the list of public authorities who may apply for an interception warrant to reflect organisational name changes.

We are also taking the opportunity to amend chapter 5 (interception warrants (section 8(4)) and chapter 6 (safeguards) to provide additional clarity in relation to the procedures for selecting and examining material intercepted under the authority of a section 8(4) warrant.

This code of practice relates to the powers and duties conferred or imposed under chapter 1 of part 1 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (‘the act’).