[F147AEEffect of codeU.K.
(1)A constable must have regard to the search powers code when exercising any powers to which the code relates.
(2)A failure on the part of a constable to act in accordance with any provision of the search powers code does not of itself make that person liable to criminal or civil proceedings.
(3)The search powers code is admissible in evidence in any such proceedings.
(4)A court or tribunal may, in particular, take into account a failure by a constable to have regard to the search powers code in determining a question in any such proceedings.
(5)The references in this section to a constable include, in relation to any functions exercisable by a person by virtue of F2... paragraph 16 of Schedule 2A to the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 2003 (search powers in specified areas or places for community support officers), references to that person.
(6)In this section “the search powers code” means the code of practice issued under section 47AB (2) (as altered or replaced from time to time).]
Textual Amendments
F1Ss. 47AA-47AE and cross-heading inserted (9.5.2012) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 62, 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2012/1205, art. 2
F2Words in s. 47AE(5) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 12 para. 13