Issue - meetings

To update members as to the Council’s use of its powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (20 minutes)

Consideration was given to a report of the Head of Legal and Democratic Services which updated members as to the Council’s use of its powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.

The Home Office Covert Surveillance and Property Interference Code of Practice recommends regular reporting to elected members of a local authority’s powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. The Act provides a legal basis for certain authorities to carry out certain invasive investigations.

Insofar as Local Authorities are concerned, this includes carrying out “directed surveillance” or use of “covert human intelligence sources” (CHIS) for authorised purposes.

Members were asked to note that Test Valley Borough Council has not utilised its powers under the 2000 Act since 2018 and the Head of Legal and Democratic Services reported a ‘nil return’ however members were requested to note the position.

Resolved:

That the report of the Head of Legal and Democratic Services on the Council’s use of its powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, be received.