Part 2 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 governs the way the public sector (e.g. councils, emergency services and the NHS) does directed surveillance, intrusive surveillance and deploys a Covert Human Intelligence Source (CHIS). This course will explain these terms in detail, will look at the record keeping and authorisation requirements as well as examine related legislation e.g. the Human Rights Act 1998 and the Data Protection Act 1998.  It will help delegates prepare for an Office of Surveillance Commissioners (OSC) inspection and implement any action points from a previous inspection.

STOP PRESS: New RIPA Regulations and Codes of Practice

Following the consultation on RIPA (part 2-covert Surveillance) last year, the Home Office has announced that new codes of practice and regulations will come into force on 6th April 2010. Changes include:

• more guidance on necessity and proportionality
• more of a role for councillors in setting RIPA strategy
• the appointment of a senior officer within organisations to oversee RIPA compliance
• removing the possibility of junior officers authorising surveillance

Our speaker will be discussing these proposals in detail giving you a head start in implementing any changes required.