Agenda item

The Principal Solicitor reported on the purpose of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA) and its application by the Council. She noted, in particular, that RIPA regulated the use of directed surveillance or the use of covert human intelligence sources and what steps were required to authorise officers under the Act.

In a recent inspection by the Office of Surveillance Commission, the Inspector stated that ‘a very professional, efficient, knowledgeable and enthusiastic team of officers is extremely very well placed to run a RIPA compliant operation, should the Council decide to make use of the RIPA provisions’.

Members noted that powers under this act could only be used to further the duties and responsibilities of the Council and if the matter under consideration could be a criminal act which would carry a minimum sentence of 6 months in prison. It was confirmed that, during the municipal year 2014/15, there had been no authorisations, reviews or renewals under RIPA for the carrying out of direct surveillance.

The Committee suggested that consideration be given to a RIPA briefing being incorporated as part of Members’ general induction training.

            Noted, that there were no authorisations for directed surveillance granted during the 2014/15 municipal year.