Following an annual review process, the Regulation of Investigatory Power Act (RIPA)and Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) Policy was updated, the Purpose Statement now includes reference to the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024, while Appendix A provides concise guidance on the use of technology, including artificial intelligence, in surveillance.
BCP Council has not made use of powers under RIPA or IPA during the 2024/25 financial year.
The BCP Council statutory return for the 2024 calendar year has been sent to the Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO).
The IPCO Inspection in July 2024 resulted in a letter from them stating that they were satisfied with ongoing compliance with RIPA and IPA and ensuring the risks or unregulated surveillance, particularly online is minimised.
Additional documents:
Minutes:
The Head of Audit and Management Assurance (HAMA) presented a report, a copy of which had been circulated to each Member and a copy of which appears as Appendix 'I' to these Minutes in the Minute Book.
The Committee was advised that following an annual review of the Council’s
use of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) and Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) for 2024/25, it was confirmed that no powers under either act were exercised during the year. The RIPA/IPA policy had been updated to include references to the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024 and had added guidance on the use of technology, including Artificial Intelligence, in surveillance. Members noted that covert surveillance remained a last resort, with proportionality a determining factor and only where the issue if proved would result in a minimum six month custodial sentence. The HAMA outlined the oversight and authorisation procedures in place. The Investigatory Powers Commissioner’s Office (IPCO) inspection in July 2024 resulted in a letter to the Council (included at Appendix A of the report) stating that they were satisfied with ongoing compliance with RIPA and IPA and ensuring the risks of unregulated surveillance, particularly online, was minimised.
RESOLVED that the Audit & Governance Committee notes that the Council has not made use of powers under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act or the Investigatory Powers Act during the 2024/25 financial year.
Voting: Agreed with no dissent