Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984

Part IU.K. Powers to Stop and Search

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

1 Power of constable to stop and search persons, vehicles etc.E+W

(1)A constable may exercise any power conferred by this section—

(a)in any place to which at the time when he proposes to exercise the power the public or any section of the public has access, on payment or otherwise, as of right or by virtue of express or implied permission; or

(b)in any other place to which people have ready access at the time when he proposes to exercise the power but which is not a dwelling.

(2)Subject to subsection (3) to (5) below, a constable—

(a)may search—

(i)any person or vehicle;

(ii)anything which is in or on a vehicle,

for stolen or prohibited articles [F1, any article to which subsection (8A) below applies [F2, any substance to which subsection (8AA) below applies] or any firework to which subsection (8B) below applies]; and

(b)may detain a person or vehicle for the purpose of such a search.

(3)This section does not give a constable power to search a person or vehicle or anything in or on a vehicle unless he has reasonable grounds for suspecting that he will find stolen or prohibited articles [F3, any article to which subsection (8A) below applies [F4, any substance to which subsection (8AA) below applies] or any firework to which subsection (8B) below applies].

(4)If a person is in a garden or yard occupied with and used for the purposes of a dwelling or on other land so occupied and used, a constable may not search him in the exercise of the power conferred by this section unless the constable has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that he does not reside in the dwelling; and

(b)that he is not in the place in question with the express or implied permission of a person who resides in the dwelling.

(5)If a vehicle is in a garden or yard occupied with and used for the purposes of a dwelling or on other land so occupied and used, a constable may not search the vehicle or anything in or on it in the exercise of the power conferred by this section unless he has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that the person in charge of the vehicle does not reside in the dwelling; and

(b)that the vehicle is not in the place in question with the express or implied permission of a person who resides in the dwelling.

(6)If in the course of such a search a constable discovers an article which he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be a stolen or prohibited article [F5, an article to which subsection (8A) below applies [F6, a substance to which subsection (8AA) below applies] or a firework to which subsection (8B) below applies], he may seize it.

(7)An article is prohibited for the purposes of this Part of this Act if it is—

(a)an offensive weapon; or

(b)an article—

(i)made or adapted for use in the course of or in connection with an offence to which this sub-paragraph applies; or

(ii)intended by the person having it with him for such use by him or by some other person.

(8)The offences to which subsection (7)(b)(i) above applies are—

(a)burglary;

(b)theft;

(c)offences under section 12 of the M1Theft Act 1968 (taking motor vehicle or other conveyance without authority); F7. . .

[F8(d)fraud (contrary to section 1 of the Fraud Act 2006)][F9; F10...

(e)offences under section 1 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971 (destroying or damaging property);]

[F11(f)an offence under section 137 of the Highways Act 1980 (wilful obstruction) involving activity which causes or is capable of causing serious disruption to two or more individuals or to an organisation;

(g)an offence under section 78 of the Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Act 2022 (intentionally or recklessly causing public nuisance);

(h)an offence under section 1 of the Public Order Act 2023 (offence of locking on);

(i)an offence under section 3 of that Act (offence of causing serious disruption by tunnelling);

(j)an offence under section 4 of that Act (offence of causing serious disruption by being present in a tunnel);

(k)an offence under section 6 of that Act (obstruction etc of major transport works); and

(l)an offence under section 7 of that Act (interference with use or operation of key national infrastructure).]

[F12(8A)This subsection applies to any article in relation to which a person has committed, or is committing or is going to commit an offence under section 139 [F13or 139AA] of the Criminal Justice Act 1988.]

[F14(8AA)This subsection applies to any substance in relation to which a person has committed, or is committing or is going to commit an offence under section 6 of the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 (offence of having a corrosive substance in a public place).

(8AB)In this section references to such a substance include an article which contains such a substance.]

[F15(8B)This subsection applies to any firework which a person possesses in contravention of a prohibition imposed by fireworks regulations.

(8C)In this section—

(a)“firework” shall be construed in accordance with the definition of “fireworks” in section 1(1) of the Fireworks Act 2003; and

(b)“fireworks regulations” has the same meaning as in that Act.]

(9)In this Part of this Act “offensive weapon” means any article—

(a)made or adapted for use for causing injury to persons; or

(b)intended by the person having it with him for such use by him or by some other person.

Textual Amendments

F9S. 1(8)(e) and preceding word "and" inserted (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 1(2), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C3S. 1(7)(b) modified (15.1.2007) by Fraud Act 2006 (c. 35), ss. 8(2)(a), 15(1); S.I. 2006/3200, art. 2

Marginal Citations

2 Provisions relating to search under section 1 and other powers.E+W

(1)A constable who detains a person or vehicle in the exercise—

(a)of the power conferred by section 1 above; or

(b)of any other power—

(i)to search a person without first arresting him; or

(ii)to search a vehicle without making an arrest,

need not conduct a search if it appears to him subsequently—

(i)that no search is required; or

(ii)that a search is impracticable.

(2)If a constable contemplates a search, other than a search of an unattended vehicle, in the exercise—

(a)of the power conferred by section 1 above; or

(b)of any other power, except the power conferred by section 6 below and the power conferred by section 27(2) of the M2Aviation Security Act 1982—

(i)to search a person without first arresting him; or

(ii)to search a vehicle without making an arrest,

it shall be his duty, subject to subsection (4) below, to take reasonable steps before he commences the search to bring to the attention of the appropriate person—

(i)if the constable is not in uniform, documentary evidence that he is a constable; and

(ii)whether he is in uniform or not, the matters specified in subsection (3) below;

and the constable shall not commence the search until he has performed that duty.

(3)The matters referred to in subsection (2)(ii) above are—

(a)the constable’s name and the name of the police station to which he is attached;

(b)the object of the proposed search;

(c)the constable’s grounds for proposing to make it; and

(d)the effect of section 3(7) or (8) below, as may be appropriate.

(4)A constable need not bring the effect of section 3(7) or (8) below to the attention of the appropriate person if it appears to the constable that it will not be practicable to make the record in section 3(1) below.

(5)In this section “the appropriate person” means—

(a)if the constable proposes to search a person, that person; and

(b)if he proposes to search a vehicle, or anything in or on a vehicle, the person in charge of the vehicle.

(6)On completing a search of an unattended vehicle or anything in or on such a vehicle in the exercise of any such power as is mentioned in subsection (2) above a constable shall leave a notice—

(a)stating that he has searched it;

(b)giving the name of the police station to which he is attached;

(c)stating that an application for compensation for any damage caused by the search may be made to that police station; and

(d)stating the effect of section 3(8) below.

(7)The constable shall leave the notice inside the vehicle unless it is not reasonably practicable to do so without damaging the vehicle.

(8)The time for which a person or vehicle may be detained for the purposes of such a search is such time as is reasonably required to permit a search to be carried out either at the place where the person or vehicle was first detained or nearby.

(9)Neither the power conferred by section 1 above nor any other power to detain and search a person without first arresting him or to detain and search a vehicle without making an arrest is to be construed—

(a)as authorising a constable to require a person to remove any of his clothing in public other than an outer coat, jacket or gloves; or

(b)as authorising a constable not in uniform to stop a vehicle.

(10)This section and section 1 above apply to vessels, aircraft and hovercraft as they apply to vehicles.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Marginal Citations

3 Duty to make records concerning searches.E+W

(1)Where a constable has carried out a search in the exercise of any such power as is mentioned in section 2(1) above, other than a search—

(a)under section 6 below; or

(b)under section 27(2) of the M3Aviation Security Act 1982, [F16a record of the search shall be made] in writing unless it is not practicable to do so.

[F17(2)If a record of a search is required to be made by subsection (1) above—

(a)in a case where the search results in a person being arrested and taken to a police station, the constable shall secure that the record is made as part of the person's custody record;

(b)in any other case, the constable shall make the record on the spot, or, if that is not practicable, as soon as practicable after the completion of the search.]

F18(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F18(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F18(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6)The record of a search of a person or a vehicle—

(a)shall state—

(i)the object of the search;

(ii)the grounds for making it;

(iii)the date and time when it was made;

(iv)the place where it was made;

[F19(v)except in the case of a search of an unattended vehicle, the ethnic origins of the person searched or the person in charge of the vehicle searched (as the case may be); and;]

(b)shall identify the constable [F20who carried out the search].

[F21(6A)The requirement in subsection (6)(a)(v) above for a record to state a person's ethnic origins is a requirement to state—

(a)the ethnic origins of the person as described by the person, and

(b)if different, the ethnic origins of the person as perceived by the constable.]

(7)[F22If a record of a search of a person has been made under this section,] the person who was searched shall be entitled to a copy of the record if he asks for one before the end of the period specified in subsection (9) below.

(8)If—

(a)the owner of a vehicle which has been searched or the person who was in charge of the vehicle at the time when it was searched asked for a copy of the record of the search before the end of the period specified in subsection (9) below; and

[F23(b)a record of the search of the vehicle has been made under this section,]

the person who made the request shall be entitled to a copy.

(9)The period mentioned in subsections (7) and (8) above is the period of [F243 months] beginning with the date on which the search was made.

(10)The requirements imposed by this section with regard to records of searches of vehicles shall apply also to records of searches of vessels, aircraft and hovercraft.

Textual Amendments

F16Words in s. 3(1) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 1(2), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(a)

F19S. 3(6)(a)(v) substituted for s. 3(6)(a)(v)(vi) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 1(5)(a), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(a)

F20Words in s. 3(6)(b) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 1(5)(b), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(a)

F22Words in s. 3(7) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 1(7), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(a)

F24Words in s. 3(9) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 1(9), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Marginal Citations

4 Road checks.E+W

(1)This section shall have effect in relation to the conduct of road checks by police officers for the purpose of ascertaining whether a vehicle is carrying—

(a)a person who has committed an offence other than a road traffic offence or a [F25vehicle] excise offence;

(b)a person who is a witness to such an offence;

(c)a person intending to commit such an offence; or

(d)a person who is unlawfully at large.

(2)For the purposes of this section a road check consists of the exercise in a locality of the power conferred by [F26section 163 of the Road Traffic Act 1988.] in such a way as to stop during the period for which its exercise in that way in that locality continues all vehicles or vehicles selected by any criterion.

(3)Subject to subsection (5) below, there may only be such a road check if a police officer of the rank of superintendent or above authorises it in writing.

(4)An officer may only authorise a road check under subsection (3) above—

(a)for the purpose specified in subsection (1)(a) above, if he has reasonable grounds—

(i)for believing that the offence is [F27an indictable offence] ; and

(ii)for suspecting that the person is, or is about to be, in the locality in which vehicles would be stopped if the road check were authorised;

(b)for the purpose specified in subsection (1)(b) above, if he has reasonable grounds for believing that the offence is [F27an indictable offence] ;

(c)for the purpose specified in subsection (1)(c) above, if he has reasonable grounds—

(i)for believing that the offence would be [F27an indictable offence] ; and

(ii)for suspecting that the person is, or is about to be, in the locality in which vehicles would be stopped if the road check were authorised;

(d)for the purpose specified in subsection (1)(d) above, if he has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the person is, or is about to be, in that locality.

(5)An officer below the rank of superintendent may authorise such a road check if it appears to him that it is required as a matter of urgency for one of the purposes specified in subsection (1) above.

(6)If an authorisation is given under subsection (5) above, it shall be the duty of the officer who gives it—

(a)to make a written record of the time at which he gives it; and

(b)to cause an officer of the rank of superintendent or above to be informed that it has been given.

(7)The duties imposed by subsection (6) above shall be performed as soon as it is practicable to do so.

(8)An officer to whom a report is made under subsection (6) above may, in writing, authorise the road check to continue.

(9)If such an officer considers that the road check should not continue, he shall record in writing—

(a)the fact that it took place; and

(b)the purpose for which it took place.

(10)An officer giving an authorisation under this section shall specify the locality in which vehicles are to be stopped.

(11)An officer giving an authorisation under this section, other than an authorisation under subsection (5) above—

(a)shall specify a period, not exceeding seven days, during which the road check may continue; and

(b)may direct that the road check—

(i)shall be continuous; or

(ii)shall be conducted at specified times,

during that period.

(12)If it appears to an officer of the rank of superintendent or above that a road check ought to continue beyond the period for which it has been authorised he may, from time to time, in writing specify a further period, not exceeding seven days, during which it may continue.

(13)Every written authorisation shall specify—

(a)the name of the officer giving it;

(b)the purpose of the road check; and

(c)the locality in which vehicles are to be stopped.

(14)The duties to specify the purposes of a road check imposed by subsections (9) and (13) above include duties to specify any relevant [F28indictable offence] .

(15)Where a vehicle is stopped in a road check, the person in charge of the vehicle at the time when it is stopped shall be entitled to obtain a written statement of the purpose of the road check if he applies for such a statement not later than the end of the period of twelve months from the day on which the vehicle was stopped.

(16)Nothing in this section affects the exercise by police officers of any power to stop vehicles for purposes other than those specified in subsection (1) above.

Textual Amendments

F25Word in s. 4(1)(a) substituted (1.9.1994) by 1994 c. 22, ss. 66(1), 63, Sch. 3 para.19 (with s. 57(4))

5 Reports of recorded searches and of road checks.E+W

(1)Every annual report—

[F29(a)under section 22 of the M4Police Act 1996; or]

(b)made by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis,

shall contain information—

(i)about searches recorded under section 3 above which have been carried out in the area to which the report relates during the period to which it relates; and

(ii)about road checks authorised in that area during that period under section 4 above.

(1A)F30. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(2)The information about searches shall not include information about specific searches but shall include—

(a)the total numbers of searches in each month during the period to which the report relates—

(i)for stolen articles;

(ii)for offensive weapons [F31or articles to which section 1(8A) above applies]; and

(iii)for other prohibited articles;

(b)the total number of persons arrested in each such month in consequence of searches of each of the descriptions specified in paragraph (a)(i) to (iii) above.

(3)The information about road checks shall include information—

(a)about the reason for authorising each road check; and

(b)about the result of each of them.

Textual Amendments

Marginal Citations

6 Statutory undertakers etc.U.K.

(1)A constable employed by statutory undertakers may stop, detain and search any vehicle before it leaves a goods area included in the premises of the statutory undertakers.

[F32(1A)Without prejudice to any powers under subsection (1) above, a constable employed [F33by the [F34British Transport Police Authority]] may stop, detain and search any vehicle before it leaves a goods area which is included in the premises of any successor of the British Railways Board and is used wholly or mainly for the purposes of a relevant undertaking.]

(2)In this section “goods area” means any area used wholly or mainly for the storage or handling of goods [F35; and “successor of the British Railways Board” and “relevant undertaking” have the same meaning as in the Railways Act 1993 (Consequential Modifications) Order 1999.]

(3)F36. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)F37. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F32S. 6(1A) inserted (13.8.1999) by S.I. 1999/1998, art. 5(1)

F33Words in s. 6(1A) substituted (1.2.2001) by 2000 c. 38, s. 217, Sch. 18 para. 5; S.I. 2001/57, art. 3(1) (Subject to Sch. 2 Pt II)

F35Words in s. 6(2) inserted (13.8.1999) by S.I. 1999/1998, art. 5(2)

7 Part I—supplementaryE+W+S

(1)The following enactments shall cease to have effect—

(a)section 8 of the M5Vagrancy Act 1824;

(b)section 66 of the M6Metropolitan Police Act 1839;

(c)section 11 of the M7Canals (Offences) Act 1840;

(d)section 19 of the M8Pedlars Act 1871;

(e)section 33 of the M9County of Merseyside Act 1980; and

(f)section 42 of the M10West Midlands County Council Act 1980.

(2)There shall also cease to have effect—

(a)so much of any enactment contained in an Act passed before 1974, other than—

(i)an enactment contained in public general Act; or

(ii)an enactment relating to statutory undertakers,

as confers power on a constable to search for stolen or unlawfully obtained goods; and

(b)so much of any enactment relating to statutory undertakers as provides that such a power shall not be exercisable after the end of a specified period.

(3)In this Part of this Act “statutory undertakers” means persons authorised by any enactment to carry on any railway, light railway, road transport, water transport, canal, inland navigation, dock or harbour undertaking.

Marginal Citations

Part IIE+W Powers of Entry, Search and Seizure

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C11Pt. II (ss. 8-23) extended (10.6.1991) by Criminal Justice (International Co-operation) Act 1990 (c. 5, SIF 39:1), s. 7(1); S.I. 1991/1072, art. 2 Sch. Pt. I

Pt. II (ss. 8-23) applied (with modifications) (17.5.1996) by S.I. 1996/1296, art. 16(1)

Pt. II (ss. 8-23) amended (17.5.1996) by S.I. 1996/1296, art. 16(7)(b)

Pt. II (ss. 8-23) applied (with modifications) (15.3.1996) by S.I. 1996/716, art. 16(1)

Pt. II (ss. 8-23) modified (1.9.2001) by 2001 c. 17, s. 33; S.I. 2001/2161, art. 2 (subject to art. 3)

Pt. II (ss. 8-23): Powers of seizure extended (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 50, 52-54, 68, Sch. 1 Pt. 1 para 1; S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)(j)

Search warrantsE+W

8 Power of justice of the peace to authorise entry and search of premises.E+W

(1)If on an application made by a constable a justice of the peace is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that [F38an indictable offence] has been committed; and

(b)that there is material on premises [F39mentioned in subsection (1A) below] which is likely to be of substantial value (whether by itself or together with other material) to the investigation of the offence; and

(c)that the material is likely to be relevant evidence; and

(d)that it does not consist of or include items subject to legal privilege, excluded material or special procedure material; and

(e)that any of the conditions specified in subsection (3) below applies,

he may issue a warrant authorising a constable to enter and search the premises [F40in relation to each set of premises specified in the application] .

[F41(1A)The premises referred to in subsection (1)(b) above are—

(a)one or more sets of premises specified in the application (in which case the application is for a “specific premises warrant”); or

(b)any premises occupied or controlled by a person specified in the application, including such sets of premises as are so specified (in which case the application is for an “all premises warrant”).

(1B)If the application is for an all premises warrant, the justice of the peace must also be satisfied—

(a)that because of the particulars of the offence referred to in paragraph (a) of subsection (1) above, there are reasonable grounds for believing that it is necessary to search premises occupied or controlled by the person in question which are not specified in the application in order to find the material referred to in paragraph (b) of that subsection; and

(b)that it is not reasonably practicable to specify in the application all the premises which he occupies or controls and which might need to be searched.]

[F42(1C)The warrant may authorise entry to and search of premises on more than one occasion if, on the application, the justice of the peace is satisfied that it is necessary to authorise multiple entries in order to achieve the purpose for which he issues the warrant.

(1D)If it authorises multiple entries, the number of entries authorised may be unlimited, or limited to a maximum.]

(2)A constable may seize and retain anything for which a search has been authorised under subsection (1) above.

(3)The conditions mentioned in subsection (1)(e) above are—

(a)that it is not practicable to communicate with any person entitled to grant entry to the premises;

(b)that it is practicable to communicate with a person entitled to grant entry to the premises but it is not practicable to communicate with any person entitled to grant access to the evidence;

(c)that entry to the premises will not be granted unless a warrant is produced;

(d)that the purpose of a search may be frustrated or seriously prejudiced unless a constable arriving at the premises can secure immediate entry to them.

(4)In this Act “relevant evidence”, in relation to an offence, means anything that would be admissible in evidence at a trial for the offence.

(5)The power to issue a warrant conferred by this section is in addition to any such power otherwise conferred.

[F43(6)This section applies in relation to a relevant offence (as defined in section 28D(4) of the Immigration Act 1971) as it applies in relation to [F38an indictable offence].]

[F44(7)Section 4 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Process) Act 1881 (execution of process of English courts in Scotland) shall apply to a warrant issued on the application of an officer of Revenue and Customs under this section by virtue of section 114 below.]

Textual Amendments

F43S. 8(6) inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33. s. 169(1), Sch. 14 para. 80(2); S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch.

F44S. 8(7) inserted (19.7.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), s. 86

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C15Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C19S. 8 applied by 1972 c. 66, s. 9A (as inserted (20.4.2015 for specified purposes, 26.3.2015 for specified purposes, 26.5.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(2)(e), Sch. 21 para. 12; S.I. 2015/994, arts. 5, 6(p))

C24S. 8(2) modified (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 55, 68, Sch. 1 Pt. 3 para. 84 (with s. 57(3)); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)(c)(j)

C25S. 8(2) extended (2.12.2002) by Police Reform act 2002 (c. 30), s. 38, {Sch. 4 Pt. 2 para. 16(c)}; S.I. 2002/2750, art. 2(a)(ii)(d)

9 Special provisions as to access.E+W

(1)A constable may obtain access to excluded material or special procedure material for the purposes of a criminal investigation by making an application under Schedule 1 below and in accordance with that Schedule.

(2)Any Act (including a local Act) passed before this Act under which a search of premises for the purposes of a criminal investigation could be authorised by the issue of a warrant to a constable shall cease to have effect so far as it relates to the authorisation of searches—

(a)for items subject to legal privilege; or

(b)for excluded material; or

(c)for special procedure material consisting of documents or records other than documents.

[F45(2A)Section 4 of the Summary Jurisdiction (Process) Act 1881 (c. 24) (which includes provision for the execution of process of English courts in Scotland) and section 29 of the Petty Sessions (Ireland) Act 1851 (c. 93) (which makes equivalent provision for execution in Northern Ireland) shall each apply to any process issued by a circuit judge under Schedule 1 to this Act as it applies to process issued by a magistrates’ court under the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980 (c. 43).]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C26Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

10 Meaning of “items subject to legal privilege”.E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (2) below, in this Act “items subject to legal privilege” means—

(a)communications between a professional legal adviser and his client or any person representing his client made in connection with the giving of legal advice to the client;

(b)communications between a professional legal adviser and his client or any person representing his client or between such an adviser or his client or any such representative and any other person made in connection with or in contemplation of legal proceedings and for the purposes of such proceedings; and

(c)items enclosed with or referred to in such communications and made—

(i)in connection with the giving of legal advice; or

(ii)in connection with or in contemplation of legal proceedings and for the purposes of such proceedings,

when they are in the possession of a person who is entitled to possession of them.

(2)Items held with the intention of furthering a criminal purpose are not items subject to legal privilege.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

11 Meaning of “excluded material”.E+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, in this Act “excluded material” means—

(a)personal records which a person has acquired or created in the course of any trade, business, profession or other occupation or for the purposes of any paid or unpaid office and which he holds in confidence;

(b)human tissue or tissue fluid which has been taken for the purposes of diagnosis or medical treatment and which a person holds in confidence;

(c)journalistic material which a person holds in confidence and which consists—

(i)of documents; or

(ii)of records other than documents.

(2)A person holds material other than journalistic material in confidence for the purposes of this section if he holds it subject—

(a)to an express or implied undertaking to hold it in confidence; or

(b)to a restriction on disclosure or an obligation of secrecy contained in any enactment, including an enactment contained in an Act passed after this Act.

(3)A person holds journalistic material in confidence for the purposes of this section if—

(a)he holds it subject to such an undertaking, restriction or obligation; and

(b)it has been continuously held (by one or more persons) subject to such an undertaking, restriction or obligation since it was first acquired or created for the purposes of journalism.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

12 Meaning of “personal records”.E+W

In this Part of this Act “personal records” means documentary and other records concerning an individual (whether living or dead) who can be identified from them and relating—

(a)to his physical or mental health;

(b)to spiritual counselling or assistance given or to be given to him; or

(c)to counselling or assistance given or to be given to him, for the purposes of his personal welfare, by any voluntary organisation or by any individual who—

(i)by reason of his office or occupation has responsibilities for his personal welfare; or

(ii)by reason of an order of a court has responsibilities for his supervision.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

13 Meaning of “journalistic material”.E+W

(1) Subject to subsection (2) below, in this Act “journalistic material” means material acquired or created for the purposes of journalism.

(2)Material is only journalistic material for the purposes of this Act if it is in the possession of a person who acquired or created it for the purposes of journalism.

(3)A person who receives material from someone who intends that the recipient shall use it for the purposes of journalism is to be taken to have acquired it for those purposes.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

14 Meaning of “special procedure material”.E+W

(1)In this Act “special procedure material” means—

(a)material to which subsection (2) below applies; and

(b)journalistic material, other than excluded material.

(2)Subject to the following provisions of this section, this subsection applies to material, other than items subject to legal privilege and excluded material, in the possession of a person who—

(a)acquired or created it in the course of any trade, business, profession or other occupation or for the purpose of any paid or unpaid office; and

(b)holds it subject—

(i)to an express or implied undertaking to hold it in confidence; or

(ii)to a restriction or obligation such as is mentioned in section 11(2)(b) above.

(3)Where material is acquired—

(a)by an employee from his employer and in the course of his employment; or

(b)by a company from an associated company,

it is only special procedure material if it was special procedure material immediately before the acquisition.

(4)Where material is created by an employee in the course of his employment, it is only special procedure material if it would have been special procedure material had his employer created it.

(5)Where material is created by a company on behalf of an associated company, it is only special procedure material if it would have been special procedure material had the associated company created it.

(6)A company is to be treated as another’s associated company for the purposes of this section if it would be so treated under [F46section 449 of the Corporation Tax Act 2010].

Textual Amendments

F46Words in s. 14(6) substituted (1.4.2010 with effect as mentioned in s. 1184(1) of the amending Act) by Corporation Tax Act 2010 (c. 4), ss. 1177, 1184(1), Sch. 1 para. 193 (with Sch. 2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

15 Search warrants—safeguards.E+W

(1)This section and section 16 below have effect in relation to the issue to constables under any enactment, including an enactment contained in an Act passed after this Act, of warrants to enter and search premises; and an entry on or search of premises under a warrant is unlawful unless it complies with this section and section 16 below.

(2)Where a constable applies for any such warrant, it shall be his duty—

(a)to state—

(i)the ground on which he makes the application; F47. . .

(ii)the enactment under which the warrant would be issued; [F48and]

[F49(iii)if the application is for a warrant authorising entry and search on more than one occasion, the ground on which he applies for such a warrant, and whether he seeks a warrant authorising an unlimited number of entries, or (if not) the maximum number of entries desired;]

[F50(b)to specify the matters set out in subsection (2A) below; and]

(c)to identify, so far as is practicable, the articles or persons to be sought.

[F51(2A)The matters which must be specified pursuant to subsection (2)(b) above are—

[F52(a)if the application relates to one or more sets of premises specified in the application, each set of premises which it is desired to enter and search;]

(b)[F53if the application relates to any premises occupied or controlled by a person specified in the application–]

(i)as many sets of premises which it is desired to enter and search as it is reasonably practicable to specify;

(ii)the person who is in occupation or control of those premises and any others which it is desired to enter and search;

(iii)why it is necessary to search more premises than those specified under sub-paragraph (i); and

(iv)why it is not reasonably practicable to specify all the premises which it is desired to enter and search.]

(3)An application for such a warrant shall be made ex parte and supported by an information in writing.

(4)The constable shall answer on oath any question that the justice of the peace or judge hearing the application asks him.

(5)A warrant shall authorise an entry on one occasion only [F54unless it specifies that it authorises multiple entries].

[F55(5A)If it specifies that it authorises multiple entries, it must also specify whether the number of entries authorised is unlimited, or limited to a specified maximum.]

(6)A warrant—

(a)shall specify—

(i)the name of the person who applies for it;

(ii)the date on which it is issued;

(iii)the enactment under which it is issued; and

[F56(iv)each set of premises to be searched, or (in the case of an all premises warrant) the person who is in occupation or control of premises to be searched, together with any premises under his occupation or control which can be specified and which are to be searched; and]

(b)shall identify, so far as is practicable, the articles or persons to be sought.

[F57(7)Two copies shall be made of a [F58warrant] which specifies only one set of premises and does not authorise multiple entries; and as many copies as are reasonably required may be made of any other kind of warrant.]

(8)The copies shall be clearly certified as copies.

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C35S. 15(5)-(8) applied by S.I. 2010/906, reg. 33(7) (as inserted (1.7.2011) by The Credit Rating Agencies (Amendment) Regulations 2011 (S.I. 2011/1435), regs. 1, 4(e) (with reg. 5))

C36Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b) (2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C37S. 15: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (24.2.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), {ss. 355(1)-(3)(a)}, 458; S.I. 2003/120, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-7 (as amended by S.I. 2003/333, art. 14 which in turn is amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4))

C39S. 15 applied (with modifications) (24.2.2003) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/174), arts. 2, 10, Sch. 1

C43S. 15 applied (with modifications) (1.6.2015) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/759), arts. 1(1), 2 (as amended (31.1.2018 for specified purposes, 16.4.2018 in so far as not already in force) by S.I. 2017/1222, arts. 1(2)(3), 2(2) and (26.4.2024) by S.I. 2024/426, arts. 1(2), 2(2))

C48Ss. 15, 16 applied (29.4.2021 for specified purposes, 29.6.2021 in so far as not already in force) by Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (c. 12), s. 21(1)(a), Sch. 8 para. 3(4); S.I. 2021/748, reg. 2(k)

C50S. 15(5)-(8) applied (3.9.2001) by 2000 c. 8, s. 176(6); S.I. 2001/2632, art. 2, Sch. 1 Pt. 2

C51S. 15(5)-(8) applied (31.12.2009) by Banking Act 2009 (c. 1), ss. 194(7), 263(1) (with ss. 206, 247); S.I. 2009/3000, art. 4, Sch. para. 2

16 Execution of warrants.E+W

(1)A warrant to enter and search premises may be executed by any constable.

(2)Such a warrant may authorise persons to accompany any constable who is executing it.

[F59(2A)A person so authorised has the same powers as the constable whom he accompanies in respect of—

(a)the execution of the warrant, and

(b)the seizure of anything to which the warrant relates.

(2B)But he may exercise those powers only in the company, and under the supervision, of a constable.]

(3)Entry and search under a warrant must be within [F60three months] from the date of its issue.

[F61(3A)If the warrant is an all premises warrant, no premises which are not specified in it may be entered or searched unless a police officer of at least the rank of inspector has in writing authorised them to be entered.]

[F62(3B)No premises may be entered or searched for the second or any subsequent time under a warrant which authorises multiple entries unless a police officer of at least the rank of inspector has in writing authorised that entry to those premises.]

(4)Entry and search under a warrant must be at a reasonable hour unless it appears to the constable executing it that the purpose of a search may be frustrated on an entry at a reasonable hour.

(5)Where the occupier of premises which are to be entered and searched is present at the time when a constable seeks to execute a warrant to enter and search them, the constable—

(a)shall identify himself to the occupier and, if not in uniform, shall produce to him documentary evidence that he is a constable;

(b)shall produce the warrant to him; and

(c)shall supply him with a copy of it.

(6)Where—

(a)the occupier of such premises is not present at the time when a constable seeks to execute such a warrant; but

(b)some other person who appears to the constable to be in charge of the premises is present,

subsection (5) above shall have effect as if any reference to the occupier were a reference to that other person.

(7)If there is no person who appears to the constable to be in charge of the premises, he shall leave a copy of the warrant in a prominent place on the premises.

(8)A search under a warrant may only be a search to the extent required for the purpose for which the warrant was issued.

(9)A constable executing a warrant shall make an endorsement on it stating—

(a)whether the articles or persons sought were found; and

(b)whether any articles were seized, other than articles which were sought

[F63and, unless the warrant is a F64. . . warrant specifying one set of premises only, he shall do so separately in respect of each set of premises entered and searched, which he shall in each case state in the endorsement.]

[F65(10)A warrant shall be returned to the appropriate person mentioned in subsection (10A) below—

(a)when it has been executed; or

(b)in the case of a specific premises warrant which has not been executed, or an all premises warrant, or any warrant authorising multiple entries, upon the expiry of the period of three months referred to in subsection (3) above or sooner.

(10A)The appropriate person is—

(a)if the warrant was issued by a justice of the peace, the designated officer for the local justice area in which the justice was acting when he issued the warrant;

(b)if it was issued by a judge, the appropriate officer of the court from which he issued it.]

(11)A warrant which is returned under subsection (10) above shall be retained for 12 months from its return—

(a)by the [F66designated officer for the local justice area] , if it was returned under paragraph (i) of that subsection; and

(b)by the appropriate officer, if it was returned under paragraph (ii).

(12)If during the period for which a warrant is to be retained the occupier of [F67premises] to which it relates asks to inspect it, he shall be allowed to do so.

Textual Amendments

F66Words in s. 16(11) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 281(3); S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C48Ss. 15, 16 applied (29.4.2021 for specified purposes, 29.6.2021 in so far as not already in force) by Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (c. 12), s. 21(1)(a), Sch. 8 para. 3(4); S.I. 2021/748, reg. 2(k)

C60Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b) (2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a) (5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C62S. 16: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (24.2.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 355(1)(2)(3)(b), 458; S.I. 2003/120, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-7 (as amended by S.I. 2003/333, art. 14 which in turn is amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4))

C64S. 16 applied (with modifications) (24.2.2003) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/174), arts. 3, 10, Sch. 1

C70S. 16 applied (with modifications) (1.6.2015) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/759), arts. 1(1), 3 (as amended (31.1.2018 for specified purposes, 16.4.2018 in so far as not already in force) by S.I. 2017/1222, arts. 1(2)(3), 2(3) and (26.4.2024) by S.I. 2024/426, arts. 1(2), 2(3))

C76S. 16(3)-(12) applied by 2000 c. 8, s. 131FB(7) (as inserted (1.11.2012) by The Financial Services and Markets Act 2000 (Short Selling) Regulations 2012 (S.I. 2012/2554), regs. 1(1), 2(5))

Entry and search without search warrantE+W

17 Entry for purpose of arrest etc.E+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, and without prejudice to any other enactment, a constable may enter and search any premises for the purpose—

(a)of executing—

(i)a warrant of arrest issued in connection with or arising out of criminal proceedings; or

(ii)a warrant of commitment issued under section 76 of the M11Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980;

(b)of arresting a person for an [F68indictable] offence;

(c)of arresting a person for an offence under—

(i)section 1 (prohibition of uniforms in connection with political objects), F69... of the M12Public Order Act 1936;

(ii)any enactment contained in sections 6 to 8 or 10 of the M13Criminal Law Act 1977 (offences relating to entering and remaining on property);

[F70(iii)section 4 of the Public Order Act 1986 (fear or provocation of violence);]

[F71(iiia)section 4 (driving etc. when under influence of drink or drugs) or 163 (failure to stop when required to do so by constable in uniform) of the Road Traffic Act 1988;

(iiib)section 27 of the Transport and Works Act 1992 (which relates to offences involving drink or drugs);]

[F72(iv)section 76 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994 (failure to comply with interim possession order);]

[F73(v)any of sections 4, 5, 6(1) and (2), 7 and 8(1) and (2) of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 (offences relating to the prevention of harm to animals);]

[F74(vi)section 144 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (squatting in a residential building);]

[F75(cza)of arresting a person who the constable has reasonable grounds for believing is in breach of a domestic abuse protection notice given under section 22 of the Domestic Abuse Act 2021;]

[F76(ca)of arresting, in pursuance of section 32(1A) of the Children and Young Persons Act 1969, any child or young person who has been remanded [F77to local authority accommodation or youth detention accommodation under section 91 of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012];

[F78(caa)of arresting a person for an offence to which section 61 of the Animal Health Act 1981 applies;]

[F79(cab)of arresting a person under any of the following provisions—

(i)section 30D(1) or (2A);

(ii)section 46A(1) or (1A);

(iii)section 5B(7) of the Bail Act 1976 (arrest where a person fails to surrender to custody in accordance with a court order);

(iv)section 7(3) of the Bail Act 1976 (arrest where a person is not likely to surrender to custody etc);

(v)section 97(1) of the Legal Aid, Sentencing and Punishment of Offenders Act 2012 (arrest where a child is suspected of breaking conditions of remand);]

(cb)of recapturing any person who is, or is deemed for any purpose to be, unlawfully at large while liable to be detained—

(i)in a prison, [F80 young offender institution, secure training centre or secure college ], or

(ii)in pursuance of [F81section 92 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing ) Act 2000] [F82or section 260 of the Sentencing Code] (dealing with children and young persons guilty of grave crimes), in any other place;]

(d)of recapturing [F83any person whatever] who is unlawfully at large and whom he is pursuing; or

(e)of saving life or limb or preventing serious damage to property.

(2)Except for the purpose specified in paragraph (e) of subsection (1) above, the powers of entry and search conferred by this section—

(a)are only exercisable if the constable has reasonable grounds for believing that the person whom he is seeking is on the premises; and

(b)are limited, in relation to premises consisting of two or more separate dwellings, to powers to enter and search—

(i)any parts of the premises which the occupiers of any dwelling comprised in the premises use in common with the occupiers of any other such dwelling; and

(ii)any such dwelling in which the constable has reasonable grounds for believing that the person whom he is seeking may be.

(3)The powers of entry and search conferred by this section are only exercisable for the purposes specified in subsection (1)(c)(ii) [F84, (iv) or (vi)] above by a constable in uniform.

(4)The power of search conferred by this section is only a power to search to the extent that is reasonably required for the purpose for which the power of entry is exercised.

(5)Subject to subsection 6 below, all the rules of common law under which a constable has power to enter premises without a warrant are hereby abolished.

(6)Nothing in subsection (5) above affects any power of entry to deal with or prevent a breach of the peace.

Textual Amendments

F71S. 17(1)(c)(iiia)(iiib) substituted for s. 17(1)(c)(iiia) (1.1.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 111, 178, Sch. 7 Pt. 4 para. 58(a); S.I. 2005/3495, art. 2(1)(m)

F72S. 17(1)(c)(iv) inserted (24.8.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 53(a); S.I. 1995/1957, art. 3

F73S. 17(1)(c)(v) inserted (27.3.2007 for W. and 6.4.2007 for E.) by Animal Welfare Act 2006 (c. 45), ss. 24, 68 (with ss. 1(2), 58(1), 59, 60); S.I. 2007/1030, art. 2(2)(g); S.I. 2007/499, art. 2(2)(g)

F75S. 17(1)(cza) inserted (27.11.2024 until the end of the specified period on 26.11.2025) by Domestic Abuse Act 2021 (c. 17), ss. 26(9), 90(6); S.I. 2024/1191, regs. 1(2)(g), 2, 3(2)(a) (with reg. 4)

F76S. 17(1)(ca)(cb) inserted (5.9.1995) by 1995 c. 16, s. 2(1); S.I. 1995/2021, art. 2

F79S. 17(1)(cab) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 72, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 21

F81Words in s. 17(1)(cb) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 95

F82Words in s. 17(1)(cb)(ii) inserted (1.12.2020) by Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 416(1), Sch. 24 para. 76 (with Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2

F83Words in s. 17(1)(d) substituted (5.9.1995) by 1995 c. 16, s. 2(1); S.I. 1995/2021, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C85S. 17 applied by 1972 c. 66, s. 9A (as inserted (20.4.2015 for specified purposes, 26.3.2015 for specified purposes, 26.5.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(2)(e), Sch. 21 para. 12; S.I. 2015/994, arts. 5, 6(p))

C89Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

Marginal Citations

18 Entry and search after arrest. E+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, a constable may enter and search any premises occupied or controlled by a person who is under arrest for an [F85indictable] offence, if he has reasonable grounds for suspecting that there is on the premises evidence, other than items subject to legal privilege, that relates—

(a)to that offence; or

(b)to some other [F85indictable] offence which is connected with or similar to that offence.

(2)A constable may seize and retain anything for which he may search under subsection (1) above.

(3)The power to search conferred by subsection (1) above is only a power to search to the extent that is reasonably required for the purpose of discovering such evidence.

(4)Subject to subsection (5) below, the powers conferred by this section may not be exercised unless an officer of the rank of inspector or above has authorised them in writing.

[F86(5)A constable may conduct a search under subsection (1)—

(a)before the person is taken to a police station or released F87... under section 30A, and

(b)without obtaining an authorisation under subsection (4),

if the condition in subsection (5A) is satisfied.

(5A)The condition is that the presence of the person at a place (other than a police station) is necessary for the effective investigation of the offence.]

(6)If a constable conducts a search by virtue of subsection (5) above, he shall inform an officer of the rank of inspector or above that he has made the search as soon as practicable after he has made it.

(7)An officer who—

(a)authorises a search; or

(b)is informed of a search under subsection (6) above, shall make a record in writing—

(i)of the grounds for the search; and

(ii)of the nature of the evidence that was sought.

(8)If the person who was in occupation or control of the premises at the time of the search is in police detention at the time the record is to be made, the officer shall make the record as part of his custody record.

Textual Amendments

F86S. 18(5)(5A) substituted for s. 18(5) (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 12, 336, Sch. 1 para. 2; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F87Words in s. 18(5)(a) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C107Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C112S. 18 applied by 1972 c. 66, s. 9A (as inserted (20.4.2015 for specified purposes, 26.3.2015 for specified purposes, 26.5.2015 in so far as not already in force) by Deregulation Act 2015 (c. 20), s. 115(2)(e), Sch. 21 para. 12; S.I. 2015/994, arts. 5, 6(p))

Seizure etc.E+W

19 General power of seizure etc. E+W

(1)The powers conferred by subsections (2), (3) and (4) below are exercisable by a constable who is lawfully on any premises.

(2)The constable may seize anything which is on the premises if he has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that it has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence; and

(b)that it is necessary to seize it in order to prevent it being concealed, lost, damaged, altered or destroyed.

(3)The constable may seize anything which is on the premises if he has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that it is evidence in relation to an offence which he is investigating or any other offence; and

(b)that it is necessary to seize it in order to prevent the evidence being concealed, lost, altered or destroyed.

(4)The constable may require any information which is [F88stored in any electronic form] and is accessible from the premises to be produced in a form in which it can be taken away and in which it is visible and legible [F89or from which it can readily be produced in a visible and legible form] if he has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that—

(i)it is evidence in relation to an offence which he is investigating or any other offence; or

(ii)it has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence; and

(b)that it is necessary to do so in order to prevent it being concealed, lost, tampered with or destroyed.

(5)The powers conferred by this section are in addition to any power otherwise conferred.

(6)No power of seizure conferred on a constable under any enactment (including an enactment contained in an Act passed after this Act) is to be taken to authorise the seizure of an item which the constable exercising the power has reasonable grounds for believing to be subject to legal privilege.

Textual Amendments

F88Words in s. 19(4) substituted (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 70, 138(2) Sch. 2 Pt. II para. 13(1)(a)(2)(a); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(k)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C116Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C120S. 19 extended (with modifications) by 2002 c. 30, Sch. 4 para. 2B(a)-(c) (as inserted (13.5.2014) by Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 (c. 12), s. 185(1), Sch. 10 para. 4 (with ss. 21, 33, 42, 58, 75, 93); S.I. 2014/949, art. 3, Sch. para. 22)

C122S. 19 applied by 1994 c. 33, s. 139(10A)(a) (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 17 para. 4(9))

C124S. 19 applied by 1994 c. 33, s. 139(10A)(a) (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 17 para. 4(9); S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(g))

C126S. 19(4) modified (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 63, 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)

C127S. 19(6) excluded (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 50 (2)(4)-(6), 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)

S. 19(6) excluded (1.4.2003) by 2001 c.16, ss. 51(2)(4)(5), 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)

20 Extension of powers of seizure to computerised information. E+W

(1)Every power of seizure which is conferred by an enactment to which this section applies on a constable who has entered premises in the exercise of a power conferred by an enactment shall be construed as including a power to require any information [F90stored in any electronic form] contained in a computer and accessible from the premises to be produced in a form in which it can be taken away and in which it is visible and legible [F91or from which it can readily be produced in a visible and legible form].

(2)This section applies—

(a)to any enactment contained in an Act passed before this Act;

(b)to sections 8 and 18 above;

(c)to paragraph 13 of Schedule 1 to this Act; and

(d)to any enactment contained in an Act passed after this Act.

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C129Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C130S. 20 modified (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 63, 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)

21 Access and copying.E+W

(1)A constable who seizes anything in the exercise of a power conferred by any enactment, including an enactment contained in an Act passed after this Act, shall, if so requested by a person showing himself—

(a)to be the occupier of premises on which it was seized; or

(b)to have had custody or control of it immediately before the seizure,

provide that person with a record of what he seized.

(2)The officer shall provide the record within a reasonable time from the making of the request for it.

(3)Subject to subsection (8) below, if a request for permission to be granted access to anything which—

(a)has been seized by a constable; and

(b)is retained by the police for the purpose of investigating an offence,

is made to the officer in charge of the investigation by a person who had custody or control of the thing immediately before it was so seized or by someone acting on behalf of such a person, the officer shall allow the person who made the request access to it under the supervision of a constable.

(4)Subject to subsection (8) below, if a request for a photograph or copy of any such thing is made to the officer in charge of the investigation by a person who had custody or control of the thing immediately before it was so seized, or by someone acting on behalf of such a person, the officer shall—

(a)allow the person who made the request access to it under the supervision of a constable for the purpose of photographing or copying it; or

(b)photograph or copy it, or cause it to be photographed or copied.

(5)A constable may also photograph or copy, or have photographed or copied, anything which he has power to seize, without a request being made under subsection (4) above.

(6)Where anything is photographed or copied under subsection (4)(b) above, the photograph or copy shall be supplied to the person who made the request.

(7)The photograph or copy shall be so supplied within a reasonable time from the making of the request.

(8)There is no duty under this section to grant access to, or to supply a photograph or copy of, anything if the officer in charge of the investigation for the purposes of which it was seized has reasonable grounds for believing that to do so would prejudice—

(a)that investigation;

(b)the investigation of an offence other than the offence for the purposes of investigating which the thing was seized; or

(c)any criminal proceedings which may be brought as a result of—

(i)the investigation of which he is in charge; or

(ii)any such investigation as is mentioned in paragraph (b) above.

[F92(9)The references to a constable in subsections (1), (2), (3)(a) and (5) include a person authorised under section 16(2) to accompany a constable executing a warrant.]

[F93(10)The references to a constable in subsections (1) and (2) do not include a constable who has seized a thing under paragraph 19ZE of Schedule 3 to the Police Reform Act 2002.]

Textual Amendments

F93S. 21(10) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 20(2), 183(1)(5)(e)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C140Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b) (2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a) (5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C141Ss. 21, 22 amended by Drug Trafficking Offences Act 1986 (c. 32, SIF 39:1), s. 29(1)

S. 21 modified: (3.2.1995) by 1994 c. 37, ss. 57(1), 69(2); (1.11.1995) by 1995 c. 11, s. 15(2) and S.I. 1995/2650, art.2

S. 21 modified (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 37, Sch. 5 para. 17; S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

S. 21 extended (1.11.1995) by 1988 c. 33, s. 93H (as inserted by 1995 c. 11, s.11; S.I. 1995/2650, art.2)

C142S. 21 modified (1.9.2001) by S.I. 1996/716, art 17D (as inserted by S.I. 2001/2563, art. 2)

C143S. 21 modified (1.9.2001) by 2001 c. 17, s. 37, Sch. 5 Pt. I para. 6(5); S.I. 2001/2161, art. 2 (subject to art. 3)

S. 21 modified (2.12.2002) by 2002 c. 30, s. 38, Sch. 4 Pt. 2 para. 20; S.I. 2002/2750, art. 2(a)(ii)(d)

C144S. 21: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (24.2.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 355(1)(2)(3)(c), 458(1)(3); S.I. 2003/120, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-7 (as amended by S.I. 2003/333, art. 14 which in turn is amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4))

C145S. 21 applied (with modifications) (24.2.2003) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 and Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/174), {arts. 4}, 10, Sch. 1

C147S. 21 applied (31.3.2008) by UK Borders Act 2007 (c. 30), ss. 46(5), 59; S.I. 2008/309, art. 3 (subject to art. 6)

C150S. 21 applied (with modifications) (1.6.2015) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/759), arts. 1(1), 4 (as amended (31.1.2018 for specified purposes, 16.4.2018 in so far as not already in force) by S.I. 2017/1222, arts. 1(2)(3), 2(4) and (26.4.2024) by S.I. 2024/426, arts. 1(2), 2(4))

C152S. 21 applied by 2007 c. 30, s. 46B(3) (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 160, 183(1)(5)(e))

C154Ss. 21, 22 applied by 1994 c. 33, s. 139(10A)(b) (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 17 para. 4(9); S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(g))

C158S. 21(1)(2) modified by 2002 c. 30, Sch. 4 para. 2B(d) (as inserted (13.5.2014) by Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 (c. 12), s. 185(1), Sch. 10 para. 4 (with ss. 21, 33, 42, 58, 75, 93); S.I. 2014/949, art. 3, Sch. para. 22)

C162S. 21(3)-(8) modified by 2002 c. 30, Sch. 4 para. 2B(e) (as inserted (13.5.2014) by Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 (c. 12), s. 185(1), Sch. 10 para. 4 (with ss. 21, 33, 42, 58, 75, 93); S.I. 2014/949, art. 3, Sch. para. 22)

22 Retention. E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (4) below, anything which has been seized by a constable or taken away by a constable following a requirement made by virtue of section 19 or 20 above may be retained so long as is necessary in all the circumstances.

(2)Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1) above—

(a)anything seized for the purposes of a criminal investigation may be retained, except as provided by subsection (4) below—

(i)for use as evidence at a trial for an offence; or

(ii)for forensic examination or for investigation in connection with an offence; and

(b)anything may be retained in order to establish its lawful owner, where there are reasonable grounds for believing that it has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence.

(3)Nothing seized on the ground that it may be used—

(a)to cause physical injury to any person;

(b)to damage property;

(c)to interfere with evidence; or

(d)to assist in escape from police detention or lawful custody,

may be retained when the person from whom it was seized is no longer in police detention or the custody of a court or is in the custody of a court but has been released on bail.

(4)Nothing may be retained for either of the purposes mentioned in subsection (2)(a) above if a photograph or copy would be sufficient for that purpose.

(5)Nothing in this section affects any power of a court to make an order under section 1 of the M14Police (Property) Act 1897.

[F94(6)This section also applies to anything retained by the police under section 28H(5) of the M15Immigration Act 1971.]

[F95(7)The reference in subsection (1) to anything seized by a constable includes anything seized by a person authorised under section 16(2) to accompany a constable executing a warrant.]

Textual Amendments

F94S. 22(6) inserted (14.2.2000) by 1999 c. 33, s. 169(1), Sch. 14 para. 80(3); S.I. 2000/168, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C154Ss. 21, 22 applied by 1994 c. 33, s. 139(10A)(b) (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 17 para. 4(9); S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(g))

C163Ss. 21, 22 amended by Drug Trafficking Offences Act 1986 (c. 32, SIF 39:1), s. 29(1)

S. 22 modified (3.2.1995) by 1994 c. 37, ss. 57(1), 69(2); (1.11.1995) by 1995 c. 11, s. 15(2) and S.I. 1995/2650, art. 2

S. 22 modified (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 37, Sch. 5 para. 17; S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

S. 22 extended (1.11.1995) by 1988 c. 33, s. 93H (as inserted by 1995 c. 11, s. 11; S.I. 1995/2650, art. 2)

C164S. 22 modified (1.9.2001) by S.I. 1996/716, art. 17D (as inserted (1.9.2001) by S.I. 2001/2563, art. 2)

C165S. 22 applied (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 57(1)(a)(4), 138; S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(a)

C167S. 22: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (24.2.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 355(1)(2)(3)(d), 458; S.I. 2003/120, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-7 (as amended by S.I. 2003/333, art. 14 which in turn is amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4))

C170S. 22 applied (with modifications) (1.6.2015) by The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (Application of Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984) Order 2015 (S.I. 2015/759), arts. 1(1), 5 (as amended: (31.1.2018 for specified purposes, 16.4.2018 in so far as not already in force) by S.I. 2017/1222, art. 1(2)(3), 2(5); (26.4.2024) by S.I. 2024/426, arts. 1(2), 2(5); and (6.11.2024) by S.I. 2024/1029, arts. 1(2), 2(2))

C172Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C178S. 22(1)-(4) applied (29.4.2021 for specified purposes, 29.6.2021 in so far as not already in force) by Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (c. 12), s. 21(1)(a), Sch. 8 para. 4(2); S.I. 2021/748, reg. 2(k)

C185S. 22(7) applied (29.4.2021 for specified purposes, 29.6.2021 in so far as not already in force) by Air Traffic Management and Unmanned Aircraft Act 2021 (c. 12), s. 21(1)(a), Sch. 8 para. 4(2); S.I. 2021/748, reg. 2(k)

Marginal Citations

SupplementaryE+W

23 Meaning of “premises” etc.E+W

In this Act—

  • “premises” includes any place and, in particular, includes—

    (a)

    any vehicle, vessel, aircraft or hovercraft;

    (b)

    any offshore installation;

    (ba)

    [F96any renewable energy installation;]

    (c)

    any tent or movable structure; F97. . .

  • “offshore installation” has the meaning given to it by section 1 of the M16Mineral Workings (Offshore Installations) Act 1971.

  • [F98“renewable energy installation” has the same meaning as in Chapter 2 of Part 2 of the Energy Act 2004.]

Textual Amendments

F96S. 23: in definition of "premises", para. (ba) substituted for word "and" at the end of para. (b) (5.10.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 103(2)(a), 198(2); S.I. 2004/2575, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

F97S. 23: word at the end of the definition of "premises" repealed (5.10.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 197, 198(2), Sch. 23 Pt. 1; S.I. 2004/2575, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 Table

F98S. 23: definition of "renewable energy installation" inserted (5.10.2004) by Energy Act 2004 (c. 20), ss. 103(2)(b), 198(2); S.I. 2004/2575, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Marginal Citations

Part IIIE+W Arrest

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C187Pt. III: Powers of seizure extended (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 50, 52-54, 68, Sch. 1 Pt. 1 para. 1; S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(j)

Pt. III: Powers of seizure extended (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 51-54, 68, Sch. 1 Pt. 2 para. 74; S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(j)

[F9924 Arrest without warrant: constablesE+W

(1)A constable may arrest without a warrant—

(a)anyone who is about to commit an offence;

(b)anyone who is in the act of committing an offence;

(c)anyone whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be about to commit an offence;

(d)anyone whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be committing an offence.

(2)If a constable has reasonable grounds for suspecting that an offence has been committed, he may arrest without a warrant anyone whom he has reasonable grounds to suspect of being guilty of it.

(3)If an offence has been committed, a constable may arrest without a warrant—

(a)anyone who is guilty of the offence;

(b)anyone whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be guilty of it.

(4)But the power of summary arrest conferred by subsection (1), (2) or (3) is exercisable only if the constable has reasonable grounds for believing that for any of the reasons mentioned in subsection (5) it is necessary to arrest the person in question.

(5)The reasons are—

(a)to enable the name of the person in question to be ascertained (in the case where the constable does not know, and cannot readily ascertain, the person's name, or has reasonable grounds for doubting whether a name given by the person as his name is his real name);

(b)correspondingly as regards the person's address;

(c)to prevent the person in question—

(i)causing physical injury to himself or any other person;

(ii)suffering physical injury;

(iii)causing loss of or damage to property;

(iv)committing an offence against public decency (subject to subsection (6)); or

(v)causing an unlawful obstruction of the highway;

(d)to protect a child or other vulnerable person from the person in question;

(e)to allow the prompt and effective investigation of the offence or of the conduct of the person in question;

(f)to prevent any prosecution for the offence from being hindered by the disappearance of the person in question.

(6)Subsection (5)(c)(iv) applies only where members of the public going about their normal business cannot reasonably be expected to avoid the person in question.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C189S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (26.3.2020 at 1.00 p.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/350), regs. 1, 9(7) (with reg. 12)

C190S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (26.3.2020 at 4.00 p.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/353), regs. 1(1), 12(5) (with regs. 3, 15)

C191S. 24 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 2(4).

C193S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (8.6.2020 at 12:01 a.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/574), regs. 1(2), 14(7) (with reg. 20)

C196S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (4.7.2020) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Leicester) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/685), regs. 1(1), 9(7) (with reg. 12)

C197S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (4.7.2020 at 00.01 a.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (England) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/684), regs. 1(2)(b), 8(7) (with reg. 11)

C198S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (11.7.2020 for specified purposes, 13.7.2020 in so far as not already in force) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 2) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/725), regs. 1(3)(4), 20(5) (with reg. 5)

C205S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (29.8.2020) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Greencore) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/921), regs. 1(2), 7(4) (with reg. 11)

C206S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (10.9.2020 at 6.00 p.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Bolton) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/974), regs. 1(1), 9(7) (with reg. 12)

C210S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (18.9.2020 at 12.01 a.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (Functions of Local Authorities etc.) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1011), regs. 1(3), 18(5) (with reg. 3) (as amended (25.11.2021) by S.I. 2021/1304, regs. 1(2), 3)

C216S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (23.10.2020 at 6.00 p.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus Restrictions) (No. 3) (Wales) Regulations 2020 (S.I. 2020/1149), regs. 1(3), 29(6) (with reg. 2)

C224S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (E.) (30.11.2021 at 4.00 a.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Wearing of Face Coverings) (England) Regulations 2021 (S.I. 2021/1340), regs. 1(2), 10(8) (with regs. 1(4), 15)

C226S. 24 applied (with modifications) (temp.) (W.) (11.2.2022 at. 4.00 a.m.) by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) (Wales) Regulations 2022 (S.I. 2022/126), regs. 1(2), 13(10) (with reg. 19)

C235S. 24(2) modified (1.9.2001) by 2001 c. 16, s. 47(3); S.I. 2001/2223, art. 4(c)

C236S. 24(2) applied by S.I. 1990/1768, art. 8(10) (as replaced by S.I. 1990/2144, art. 3)

S. 24(2) extended (15.4.1992) by S.I. 1992/975, art. 16(13).

S. 24(2) extended (5.6.1992) by S.I. 1992/1302, art. 17(13).

s. 24(2) extended (1.5.1993) by S.I. 1993/1188, art. 16(11).

S. 24(2) extended (24.5.1993) by S.I. 1993/1244, art. 22(13).

S. 24(2) extended (22.7.1993) by S.I. 1993/1784, art. 13(12).

S. 24(2) extended (22.7.1993) by S.I. 1993/1787, art. 10(12).

S. 24(2) extended (1.10.1993) by S.I. 1993/2355, art. 12(12).

S. 24(2) extended (1.12.1993) by S.I. 1993/2807, art. 19(12)

S. 24(2) applied (23.5.1994) by 1994/1323, art. 17(12)

S. 24(2) applied (19.10.1994) by S.I. 1994/2673, art. 13(12)

S. 24(2) applied (7.2.1995) by S.I. 1995/271, art. 11(4)

S. 24(2) applied (15.11.1996) by S.I. 1996/2721, art. 11(4)

S. 24(2) extended (1.11.1997) by S.I. 1997/2592, art. 12(12)

S. 24(2) applied (with modifications) (15.7.1998) by S.I. 1998/1531, art. 4(2).

S. 24(2) extended (3.6.1999) by S.I. 1999/1516, art. 9(9)

S. 24(2) extended (14.10.1999) by S.I. 1999/2821, art. 4(2)

S. 24(2) extended (14.10.1999) by S.I. 1999/2822, art. 4(2)

S. 24(2) extended (26.11.1999) by S.I. 1999/3133, art. 8(12)

S. 24(2) applied (16.6.2000) by S.I. 2000/1556, art. 17(12)

S. 24(2) applied (28.9.2000) by S.I. 2000/2620, reg. 11(5)

S. 24(2) applied (25.5.2000) by S.I. 2000/1408, reg. 3

S. 24(2) extended (16.2.2001) by S.I. 2001/396, art. 25(13)

S. 24(2) applied (10.10.2001) by S.I. 2001/3365, art. 10(10) (subject to art. 1(2))

C237S. 24(2) applied (with modifications) (25.1.2002) by The Al-Qa'ida and Taliban (United Nations Measures) Order 2002 (S.I. 2002/111), art. 20(13)

S. 24(2) applied (with modifications) (31.3.2002) by The Zimbabwe (Sale, Supply, Export and Shipment of Equipment) (Penalties and Licences) Regulations 2002 (S.I. 2002/ 868), {reg. 4(2)}

S. 24(2) applied (with modifications) (24.10.2002) by The Somalia (United Nations Sanctions) Order (S.I. 2002/2628), {art. 16(12)}

[F10024AArrest without warrant: other personsE+W

(1)A person other than a constable may arrest without a warrant—

(a)anyone who is in the act of committing an indictable offence;

(b)anyone whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be committing an indictable offence.

(2)Where an indictable offence has been committed, a person other than a constable may arrest without a warrant—

(a)anyone who is guilty of the offence;

(b)anyone whom he has reasonable grounds for suspecting to be guilty of it.

(3)But the power of summary arrest conferred by subsection (1) or (2) is exercisable only if—

(a)the person making the arrest has reasonable grounds for believing that for any of the reasons mentioned in subsection (4) it is necessary to arrest the person in question; and

(b)it appears to the person making the arrest that it is not reasonably practicable for a constable to make it instead.

(4)The reasons are to prevent the person in question—

(a)causing physical injury to himself or any other person;

(b)suffering physical injury;

(c)causing loss of or damage to property; or

(d)making off before a constable can assume responsibility for him.

[F101(5)This section does not apply in relation to an offence under Part 3 or 3A of the Public Order Act 1986.]]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C251S. 24A restricted (1.1.2007) by Electoral Administration Act 2006 (c. 22), ss. 71, 77; S.I. 2006/3412, art. 3, Sch. 1 para. 9 (with Sch. 2)

S. 24A restricted (1.2.2007) by The National Assembly for Wales ( Representation of The People) Order (S.I. 2007/236), arts. 1(1), {30(4)}

25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

F102. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

26 Repeal of statutory powers of arrest without warrant or order.E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (2) below, so much of any Act (including a local Act) passed before this Act as enables a constable—

(a)to arrest a person for an offence without a warrant; or

(b)to arrest a person otherwise than for an offence without a warrant or an order of a court,

shall cease to have effect.

(2)Nothing in subsection (1) above affects the enactments specified in Schedule 2 to this Act.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

27 Fingerprinting of certain offenders.E+W

F103(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F103(1A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F103(1B). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F103(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F103(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision for recording in national police records convictions for such offences as are specified in the regulations.

[F104(4A)In subsection (4) “conviction” includes—

(a)a caution within the meaning of Part 5 of the Police Act 1997; and

(b)a reprimand or warning given under section 65 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998.]

F105(4A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)Regulations under this section shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

28 Information to be given on arrest. E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (5) below, where a person is arrested, otherwise than by being informed that he is under arrest, the arrest is not lawful unless the person arrested is informed that he is under arrest as soon as is practicable after his arrest.

(2)Where a person is arrested by a constable, subsection (1) above applies regardless of whether the fact of the arrest is obvious.

(3)Subject to subsection (5) below, no arrest is lawful unless the person arrested is informed of the ground for the arrest at the time of, or as soon as is practicable after, the arrest.

(4)Where a person is arrested by a constable, subsection (3) above applies regardless of whether the ground for the arrest is obvious.

(5)Nothing in this section is to be taken to require a person to be informed—

(a)that he is under arrest; or

(b)of the ground for the arrest,

if it was not reasonably practicable for him to be so informed by reason of his having escaped from arrest before the information could be given.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C254Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C258S. 28 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(a) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16)

C260S. 28 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(a) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16; S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(f))

29 Voluntary attendance at police station etc.E+W

Where for the purpose of assisting with an investigation a person attends voluntarily at a police station or at any other place where a constable is present or accompanies a constable to a police station or any such other place without having been arrested—

(a)he shall be entitled to leave at will unless he is placed under arrest;

(b)he shall be informed at once that he is under arrest if a decision is taken by a constable to prevent him from leaving at will.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C261Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

30 Arrest elsewhere than at police station.E+W

[F106(1)Subsection (1A) applies where a person is, at any place other than a police station—

(a)arrested by a constable for an offence, or

(b)taken into custody by a constable after being arrested for an offence by a person other than a constable.

(1A)The person must be taken by a constable to a police station as soon as practicable after the arrest.

(1B)Subsection (1A) has effect subject to section 30A (release [F107of a person arrested elsewhere than at police station]) and subsection (7)(release without bail).]

(2)Subject to subsections (3) and (5) below, the police station to which an arrested person is taken under [F108subsection (1A)] above shall be a designated police station.

(3)A constable to whom this subsection applies may take an arrested person to any police station unless it appears to the constable that it may be necessary to keep the arrested person in police detention for more than six hours.

(4)Subsection (3) above applies—

(a)to a constable who is working in a locality covered by a police station which is not a designated police station; and

(b)to a constable belonging to a body of constables maintained by an authority other than a [F109local policing body].

(5)Any constable may take an arrested person to any police station if—

(a)either of the following conditions is satisfied—

(i)the constable has arrested him without the assistance of any other constable and no other constable is available to assist him;

(ii)the constable has taken him into custody from a person other than a constable without the assistance of any other constable and no other constable is available to assist him; and

(b)it appears to the constable that he will be unable to take the arrested person to a designated police station without the arrested person injuring himself, the constable or some other person.

(6)If the first police station to which an arrested person is taken after his arrest is not a designated police station, he shall be taken to a designated police station not more than six hours after his arrival at the first police station unless he is released previously.

[F110(7)A person arrested by a constable at any place other than a police station must be released without bail if the condition in subsection (7A) is satisfied.

(7A)The condition is that, at any time before the person arrested reaches a police station, a constable is satisfied that there are no grounds for keeping him under arrest F111....]

(8)A constable who releases a person under subsection (7) above shall record the fact that he has done so.

(9)The constable shall made the record as soon as is practicable after the release.

[F112(10)Nothing in subsection (1A) or in section 30A prevents a constable delaying taking a person to a police station or releasing him [F113under section 30A] if the condition in subsection (10A) is satisfied.

(10A)The condition is that the presence of the person at a place (other than a police station) is necessary in order to carry out such investigations as it is reasonable to carry out immediately.

(11)Where there is any such delay the reasons for the delay must be recorded when the person first arrives at the police station or (as the case may be) is released [F113under section 30A].]

(12)Nothing in [F114subsection (1A) or section 30A] above shall be taken to affect—

(a)paragraphs 16(3) or 18(1) of Schedule 2 to the M17Immigration Act 1971;

(b)section 34(1) of the M18Criminal Justice Act 1972; F115...

[F116(c)any provision of the Terrorism Act 2000] [F117; or

(d)section 27 of and Schedule 6 to the National Security Act 2023.]

(13)Nothing in subsection (1) above shall be taken to affect paragraph 18(3) of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971.

Textual Amendments

F106S. 30(1)-(1B) substituted (20.1.2004) for s. 30(1) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 4(2), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F107Words in s. 30(1)(b) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(3)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F108Words in s. 30(2) substituted (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 4(3), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F110S. 30(7)(7A) substituted for s. 30(7) (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 4(4), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F111Words in s. 30(7A) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(3)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F112S. 30(10)(10A)(11) substituted (20.1.2004) for s. 30(10)(11) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 4(5), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F113Words in s. 30(10)(11) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(3)(c), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F114Words in s. 30(12) substituted (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 4(6), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F116S. 30(12)(c) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, ss. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(2) (with s. 129(1)(b)); 2001/421, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C266S. 30 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 2(6); s. 30 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 2 as in corporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3

C268S. 30 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

C274Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

Marginal Citations

[F11830A [F119Release of a person arrested] elsewhere than at police stationE+W

[F120(1)If subsection (1A) applies, a constable may release on bail a person who is arrested or taken into custody in the circumstances mentioned in section 30(1).]

[F121(1A)This subsection applies if—

(a)the constable is satisfied that releasing the person on bail is necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances (having regard, in particular, to any conditions of bail which would be imposed), and

(b)[F122a custody officer] authorises the release on bail (having considered any representations made by the person).]

[F123(1B)In determining whether releasing the person on bail is necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances, the constable must have regard in particular to—

(a)the need to secure that the person surrenders to custody,

(b)the need to prevent offending by the person,

(c)the need to safeguard victims of crime and witnesses, taking into account any vulnerabilities of any alleged victim of, or alleged witness to, the offence for which the person was arrested where these vulnerabilities have been identified by the constable,

(d)the need to safeguard the person, taking into account any vulnerabilities of the person where these vulnerabilities have been identified by the constable, and

(e)the need to manage risks to the public.]

[F124(1C)If subsection (1A) does not apply, a constable may release without bail a person who is arrested or taken into custody in the circumstances mentioned in section 30(1).]

(2)A person may be released F125... under subsection (1) [F126or (1C)] at any time before he arrives at a police station.

(3)A person released on bail under subsection (1) must be required to attend a police station.

[F127(3A)Where a constable releases a person on bail under subsection (1)—

(a)no recognizance for the person's surrender to custody shall be taken from the person,

(b)no security for the person's surrender to custody shall be taken from the person or from anyone else on the person's behalf,

(c)the person shall not be required to provide a surety or sureties for his surrender to custody, and

(d)no requirement to reside in a bail hostel may be imposed as a condition of bail.

(3B)Subject to subsection (3A), where a constable releases a person on bail under subsection (1) the constable may impose, as conditions of the bail, such requirements as appear to the constable to be necessary—

(a)to secure that the person surrenders to custody,

(b)to secure that the person does not commit an offence while on bail,

(c)to secure that the person does not interfere with witnesses or otherwise obstruct the course of justice, whether in relation to himself or any other person, or

(d)for the person's own protection or, if the person is [F128under the age of 18], for the person's own welfare or in the person's own interests.

(4)Where a person is released on bail under subsection (1), a requirement may be imposed on the person as a condition of bail only under the preceding provisions of this section.]

(5)The police station which the person is required to attend may be any police station.

Textual Amendments

F119Words in s. 30A heading substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 52(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F121S. 30A(1A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 52(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F125Words in s. 30A(2) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 52(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F127S. 30A(3A)-(4) substituted (1.4.2007) for s. 30A(4) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 2; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F128Words in s. 30A(3B)(d) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 73(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 22

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

30BF129... section 30A: noticesE+W

(1)Where a constable [F130releases] a person under section 30A, he must give that person a notice in writing before he is released.

(2)The notice must state—

(a)the offence for which he was arrested, F131...

(b)the ground on which he was arrested [F132and

(c)whether the person is being released without bail or on bail].

(3)[F133A notice given to a person who is released on bail] must inform him that he is required to attend a police station.

[F134(4)The notice must also specify—

(a)the police station which the person is required to attend, and

(b)the time on the bail end date when the person is required to attend the police station.]

[F135(4A)If the person is granted bail subject to conditions under section 30A(3B), the notice also—

(a)must specify the requirements imposed by those conditions,

(b)must explain the opportunities under sections 30CA(1) and 30CB(1) for variation of those conditions, F136...

F136(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

F137(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6)The person may be required to attend a different police station from that specified in the notice under subsection (1) or [F138to attend at a different time or an additional time].

[F139(6A)A person may not be required under subsection (6) to attend a police station at a time which is after the bail end date in relation to the person.]

(7)He must be given notice in writing of any such change as is mentioned in subsection (6) but more than one such notice may be given to him.

[F140(8)In this section “bail end date”, in relation to a person, means the last day of the period of [F1413 months] beginning with the day after the day on which the person was arrested for the offence in relation to which bail is granted under section 30A.]

Textual Amendments

F129Words in s. 30B omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F130Word in s. 30B(1) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F131Word in s. 30B(2) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(7)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F132S. 30B(2)(c) and word inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(7)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F133Words in s. 30B(3) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(8), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F134S. 30B(4) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F136S. 30B(4A)(c) and word omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F137S. 30B(5) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F138Word in s. 30B(6) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F139S. 30B(6A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(7), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F140S. 30B(8) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(8), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

30CF142... section 30A: supplementalE+W

(1)A person who has been required to attend a police station is not required to do so if he is given notice in writing that his attendance is no longer required.

(2)If a person is required to attend a police station which is not a designated police station he must be—

(a)released, or

(b)taken to a designated police station,

not more than six hours after his arrival.

(3)Nothing in the Bail Act 1976 applies in relation to bail under section 30A.

(4)Nothing in section 30A or 30B or in this section prevents the re-arrest without a warrant of a person released F143... under section 30A if[F144, since the person’s release, new evidence has come to light or an examination or analysis of existing evidence has been made which could not reasonably have been made before the person’s release].

Textual Amendments

F142Words in s. 30C omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(9)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F143Words in s. 30C(4) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 53(9)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F144Words in s. 30C(4) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 65(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 17 (with reg. 5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F14530CABail under section 30A: variation of conditions by policeE+W

(1)Where a person released on bail under section 30A(1) is on bail subject to conditions—

(a)a relevant officer at the police station at which the person is required to attend, F146...

F146(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

may, at the request of the person but subject to subsection (2), vary the conditions.

(2)On any subsequent request made in respect of the same grant of bail, subsection (1) confers power to vary the conditions of the bail only if the request is based on information that, in the case of the previous request or each previous request, was not available to the relevant officer considering that previous request when he was considering it.

(3)Where conditions of bail granted to a person under section 30A(1) are varied under subsection (1)—

(a)paragraphs (a) to (d) of section 30A(3A) apply,

(b)requirements imposed by the conditions as so varied must be requirements that appear to the relevant officer varying the conditions to be necessary for any of the purposes mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (d) of section 30A(3B), and

(c)the relevant officer who varies the conditions must give the person notice in writing of the variation.

(4)Power under subsection (1) to vary conditions is, subject to subsection (3)(a) and (b), power—

(a)to vary or rescind any of the conditions, and

(b)to impose further conditions.

[F147(4A)If it is reasonably practicable to do so, the investigating officer must seek the views of the alleged victim (if any) of the relevant offence on—

(a)whether any of the conditions that are relevant conditions should be varied under subsection (1), and

(b)if so, what variations should be made to those conditions.

(4B)The investigating officer must inform the relevant officer of any views obtained under subsection (4A).

(4C)If any of the conditions which are relevant conditions are varied under subsection (1), the investigating officer must, if it is reasonably practicable to do so, notify the alleged victim of the variations.

(4D)If the alleged victim of the relevant offence appears to the investigating officer to be vulnerable, subsections (4A) and (4C) apply as if references to the alleged victim of the offence were to a person appearing to the officer to represent the alleged victim.]

[F148(5)In this section—

  • “investigating officer”, in relation to the relevant offence, means the constable or other person in charge of the investigation of the offence;

  • “relevant condition”, in relation to the relevant offence and an alleged victim of that offence, means a condition that relates to the safeguarding of the alleged victim;

  • “relevant offence” means the offence for which the person making the request under subsection (1) was under arrest when granted bail under section 30A(1);

  • “relevant officer”, in relation to a designated police station, means a custody officer but, in relation to any other police station—

    (a)

    means a constable who is not involved in the investigation of the relevant offence, if such a constable is readily available, and

    (b)

    if no such constable is readily available—

    (i)

    means a constable other than the one who granted bail to the person, if such a constable is readily available, and

    (ii)

    if no such constable is readily available, means the constable who granted bail.

(6)For the purposes of this section a person (“P”) is an alleged victim of an offence if—

(a)an allegation has been made to a constable or other person involved in the investigation of the offence that P has suffered physical, mental or emotional harm, or economic loss, which was directly caused by the offence, and

(b)P is an individual.

(7)For the purposes of this section an alleged victim of an offence is vulnerable if the alleged victim—

(a)was aged under 18 at the time of the offence, or

(b)may have difficulty understanding a communication from an investigating officer under this section, or communicating effectively in response to it, by reason of—

(i)a physical disability or disorder,

(ii)a mental disorder within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1983, or

(iii)a significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning.]

Textual Amendments

F145Ss. 30CA, 30CB inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 4; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F146S. 30CA(1)(b) and word omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(9), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

30CBBail under section 30A: variation of conditions by courtE+W

(1)Where a person released on bail under section 30A(1) is on bail subject to conditions, a magistrates' court may, on an application by or on behalf of the person, vary the conditions if—

(a)the conditions have been varied under section 30CA(1) since being imposed under section 30A(3B),

(b)a request for variation under section 30CA(1) of the conditions has been made and refused, or

(c)a request for variation under section 30CA(1) of the conditions has been made and the period of 48 hours beginning with the day when the request was made has expired without the request having been withdrawn or the conditions having been varied in response to the request.

(2)In proceedings on an application for a variation under subsection (1), a ground may not be relied upon unless—

(a)in a case falling within subsection (1)(a), the ground was relied upon in the request in response to which the conditions were varied under section 30CA(1), or

(b)in a case falling within paragraph (b) or (c) of subsection (1), the ground was relied upon in the request mentioned in that paragraph,

but this does not prevent the court, when deciding the application, from considering different grounds arising out of a change in circumstances that has occurred since the making of the application.

(3)Where conditions of bail granted to a person under section 30A(1) are varied under subsection (1)—

(a)paragraphs (a) to (d) of section 30A(3A) apply,

(b)requirements imposed by the conditions as so varied must be requirements that appear to the court varying the conditions to be necessary for any of the purposes mentioned in paragraphs (a) to (d) of section 30A(3B), and

(c)that bail shall not lapse but shall continue subject to the conditions as so varied.

(4)Power under subsection (1) to vary conditions is, subject to subsection (3)(a) and (b), power—

(a)to vary or rescind any of the conditions, and

(b)to impose further conditions.]

Textual Amendments

F145Ss. 30CA, 30CB inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 4; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

30DFailure to answer to bail under section 30AE+W

(1)A constable may arrest without a warrant a person who—

(a)has been released on bail under section 30A subject to a requirement to attend a specified police station, but

(b)fails to attend the police station at the specified time.

(2)A person arrested under subsection (1) must be taken to a police station (which may be the specified police station or any other police station) as soon as practicable after the arrest.

[F149(2A)A person who has been released on bail under section 30A may be arrested without a warrant by a constable if the constable has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the person has broken any of the conditions of bail.

(2B)A person arrested under subsection (2A) must be taken to a police station (which may be the specified police station mentioned in subsection (1) or any other police station) as soon as practicable after the arrest.]

(3)In subsection (1), “specified” means specified in a notice under subsection (1) F150... of section 30B or, if notice of change has been given under subsection (7) of that section, in that notice.

(4)For the purposes of—

(a)section 30 (subject to the [F151obligations in subsections (2) and (2B)]), and

(b)section 31,

an arrest under this section is to be treated as an arrest for an offence.]

Textual Amendments

F149S. 30D(2A)(2B) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 5(2); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F150Words in s. 30D(3) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 62(10), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 14 (with reg. 5)

F151Words in s. 30D(4)(a) substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 5(3); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

31 Arrest for further offence. E+W

Where—

(a)a person—

(i)has been arrested for an offence; and

(ii)is at a police station in consequence of that arrest; and

(b)it appears to a constable that, if he were released from that arrest, he would be liable to arrest for some other offence,

he shall be arrested for that other offence.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C280Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b) (2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

32 Search upon arrest.E+W

(1)A constable may search an arrested person, in any case where the person to be searched has been arrested at a place other than a police station, if the constable has reasonable grounds for believing that the arrested person may present a danger to himself or others.

(2)Subject to subsections (3) to (5) below, a constable shall also have power in any such case—

(a)to search the arrested person for anything—

(i)which he might use to assist him to escape from lawful custody; or

(ii)which might be evidence relating to an offence; and

[F152(b)if the offence for which he has been arrested is an indictable offence, to enter and search any premises in which he was when arrested or immediately before he was arrested for evidence relating to the offence.]

(3)The power to search conferred by subsection (2) above is only a power to search to the extent that is reasonably required for the purpose of discovering any such thing or any such evidence.

(4)The powers conferred by this section to search a person are not to be construed as authorising a constable to require a person to remove any of his clothing in public other than an outer coat, jacket or gloves [F153but they do authorise a search of a person’s mouth].

(5)A constable may not search a person in the exercise of the power conferred by subsection (2)(a) above unless he has reasonable grounds for believing that the person to be searched may have concealed on him anything for which a search is permitted under that paragraph.

(6)A constable may not search premises in the exercise of the power conferred by subsection (2)(b) above unless he has reasonable grounds for believing that there is evidence for which a search is permitted under that paragraph on the premises.

(7)In so far as the power of search conferred by subsection (2)(b) above relates to premises consisting of two or more separate dwellings, it is limited to a power to search—

(a)any dwelling in which the arrest took place or in which the person arrested was immediately before his arrest; and

(b)any parts of the premises which the occupier of any such dwelling uses in common with the occupiers of any other dwellings comprised in the premises.

(8)A constable searching a person in the exercise of the power conferred by subsection (1) above may seize and retain anything he finds, if he has reasonable grounds for believing that the person searched might use it to cause physical injury to himself or to any other person.

(9)A constable searching a person in the exercise of the power conferred by subsection (2)(a) above may seize and retain anything he finds, other than an item subject to legal privilege, if he has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that he might use it to assist him to escape from lawful custody; or

(b)that it is evidence of an offence or has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence.

(10)Nothing in this section shall be taken to affect the power conferred by [F154section 43 of the Terrorism Act 2000].

Textual Amendments

F153Words in s. 32(4) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 59(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F154Words in s. 32(10) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, ss. 125(1), Sch. 15 para. 5(3) (with s. 29(1)); S.I. 2001/421

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C285S. 32 modified (3.11.1994) by 1994 c. 33, ss. 166(5), 172(2)(4)

C287Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

[F15533 Execution of warrant not in possession of constable.E+W

In section 125 of the M19Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980—

(a)in subsection (3), for the words “arrest a person charged with an offence” there shall be substituted the words “which this subsection applies”;

(b)the following subsection shall be added after that subsection—

“(4)The warrants to which subsection (3) above applies are—

(a)a warrant to arrest a person in connection with an offence;

(b)without prejudice to paragraph (a) above, a warrant under section 186(3) of the M20Army Act 1955, section 186(3) of the M21Air Force Act 1955, section 105(3) of the M22Naval Discipline Act 1957 or Schedule 5 to the M23Reserve Forces Act 1980 (desertion etc.);

(c)a warrant under—

(i)section 102 or 104 of the M24General Rate Act 1967 (insufficiency of distress);

(ii)section 18(4) of the M25Domestic Proceedings and Magistrates’ Courts Act 1978 (protection of parties to marriage and children of family); and

(iii)section 55, 76, 93 or 97 above.”]

Textual Amendments

Marginal Citations

Part IVE+W Detention

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C293Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(6)(b)(c)(7), 5(9)(b)(c), 6(9)(b)(c); Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 5

Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified by The Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 (Juxtaposed Controls) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2818), art. 7(6)(c) (the modification coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the modifying S.I.)

Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified by The Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 (Juxtaposed Controls) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2818), art. 15(2) (the modification coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the modifying S.I.)

Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified by The Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 (Juxtaposed Controls) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2818), art. 16(4) (the modification coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the modifying S.I.)

Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified (30.3.2004) by Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (c. 20), ss. 85(4)(a), 120 (with s. 90); S.I. 2004/827, art. 3(h)

Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) modified (30.3.2004) by Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (c. 20), ss. 97(4)(a), 120 (with s. 100); S.I. 2004/827, art. 3(t)

C294Pt. IV (ss. 34-52) applied (with modifications) (4.4.2005) Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 87(3), 336; S.I. 2005/950, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 5 (subject to art. 2(2), Sch. 2) (as amended by S.I. 2005/2122, art. 2)

Detention—conditions and durationE+W

34 Limitations on police detention.E+W

(1)A person arrested for an offence shall not be kept in police detention except in accordance with the provisions of this Part of this Act.

(2)Subject to subsection (3) below, if at any time a custody officer—

(a)becomes aware, in relation to any person in police detention, that the grounds for the detention of that person have ceased to apply; and

(b)is not aware of any other grounds on which the continued detention of that person could be justified under the provision of this part of this Act,

it shall be the duty of the custody officer, subject to subsection (4) below, to order his immediate release from custody.

(3)No person in police detention shall be released except on the authority of a custody officer at the police station where his detention was authorised or, if it was authorised at more than one station, a custody officer at the station where it was last authorised.

(4)A person who appears to the custody officer to have been unlawfully at large when he was arrested is not to be released under subsection (2) above.

[F156(5)A person whose release is ordered under subsection (2) must be released on bail if subsection (5A) applies.]

[F157(5A)This subsection applies if—

(a)it appears to the custody officer—

(i)that there is need for further investigation of any matter in connection with which the person was detained at any time during the period of the person’s detention, or

(ii)that, in respect of any such matter, proceedings may be taken against the person or the person may be given a youth caution under section 66ZA of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998, and

(b)the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied.]

[F158(5AA)A person whose release is ordered under subsection (2) must be released without bail if subsection (5A) does not apply.]

[F159(5B)Subsection (5C) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (5) [F160or (5AA)], and

(b)the custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(5C)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(5D)Subsection (5C) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.

(5E)In this Part “caution” includes—

(a)a conditional caution within the meaning of Part 3 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003;

(b)a youth conditional caution within the meaning of Chapter 1 of Part 4 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998;

(c)a youth caution under section 66ZA of that Act.]

(6)For the purposes of this Part of this Act a person arrested under [F161section 6D of the Road Traffic Act 1988][F162or section 30(2) of the Transport and Works Act 1992 (c. 42)] is arrested for an offence.

[F163(7)For the purposes of this Part a person who—

(a)attends a police station to answer to bail granted under section 30A,

(b)returns to a police station to answer to bail granted under this Part, or

(c)is arrested under section 30D or 46A,

is to be treated as arrested for an offence and that offence is the offence in connection with which he was granted bail.

[F164But this subsection is subject to section 47(6) (which provides for the calculation of certain periods, where a person has been granted bail under this Part, by reference to time when the person is in police detention only).]]

F165[(8)Subsection (7) does not apply in relation to a person who is granted bail subject to the duty mentioned in section 47(3)(b) and who either—

(a)attends a police station to answer to such bail, or

(b)is arrested under section 46A for failing to do so,

(provision as to the treatment of such persons for the purposes of this Part being made by section 46ZA).]

Textual Amendments

F157S. 34(5A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 54(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F159S. 34(5B)-(5E) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

F164Words in s. 34(7) inserted (retrospectively) by Police (Detention and Bail) Act 2011 (c. 9), s. 1(2)(3)

F165S. 34(8) inserted (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(2), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C296Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C297S. 34(1)-(5) modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3).

C298S. 34(1)-(5) applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2006/1614, art. 2(e))

35 Designated police stations.E+W

(1)The chief officer of police for each police area shall designate the police stations in his area which, subject to [F166sections 30(3) and (5), 30A(5) and 30D(2)] , are to be the stations in that area to be used for the purpose of detaining arrested persons.

(2)A chief officer’s duty under subsection (1) above is to designate police stations appearing to him to provide enough accommodation for that purpose.

[F167(2A)The Chief Constable of the British Transport Police Force may designate police stations which (in addition to those designated under subsection (1) above) may be used for the purpose of detaining arrested persons.]

(3)Without prejudice to section 12 of the M26Interpretation Act 1978 (continuity of duties) a chief officer—

(a)may designate a station which was not previously designated; and

(b)may direct that a designation of a station previously made shall cease to operate.

(4)In this Act “designated police station” means a police station for the time being designated under this section.

Textual Amendments

F167S. 35(2A) inserted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c. 24, ss. 101, Sch. 7 para. 12

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C302Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

Marginal Citations

36 Custody officers at police stations.E+W

(1)One or more custody officers shall be appointed for each designated police station.

(2)A custody officer for [F168a police station designated under section 35(1) above] shall be appointed—

(a)by the chief officer of police for the area in which the designated police station is situated; or

(b)by such other police officer as the chief officer of police for that area may direct.

F169 [( 2A )A custody officer for a police station designated under section 35(2A) above shall be appointed—

(a)by the Chief Constable of the British Police Transport Force; or

(b)by such other member of that Force as that Chief Constable may direct.]

[F170(3)No officer may be appointed a custody officer unless the officer is of at least the rank of sergeant.]

(4)An officer of any rank may perform the functions of a custody officer at a designated police station if a custody officer is not readily available to perform them.

(5)Subject to the following provisions of this section and to section 39(2) below, none of the functions of a custody officer in relation to a person shall be performed by [F171an officer] who at the time when the function falls to be performed is involved in the investigation of an offence for which that person is in police detention at that time.

(6)Nothing in subsection (5) above is to be taken to prevent a custody officer—

(a)performing any function assigned to custody officers—

(i)by this Act; or

(ii)by a code of practice issued under this Act;

(b)carrying out the duty imposed on custody officers by section 39 below;

(c)doing anything in connection with the identification of a suspect; or

(d)doing anything under [F172sections 7 and 8 of the Road Traffic Act 1988].

(7)Where an arrested person is taken to a police station which is not a designated police station, the functions in relation to him which at a designated police station would be the functions of a custody officer shall be performed—

(a)by an officer F173. . . who is not involved in the investigation of an offence for which he is in police detention, if [F174such an officer] is readily available; and

(b)if no [F175such officer] is readily available, by the officer who took him to the station or any other officer.

[F176(7A)Subject to subsection (7B), subsection (7) applies where a person attends a police station which is not a designated station to answer to bail granted under section 30A as it applies where a person is taken to such a station.

(7B)Where subsection (7) applies because of subsection (7A), the reference in subsection (7)(b) to the officer who took him to the station is to be read as a reference to the officer who granted him bail.]

[F177(7C)The reference to a custody officer in section 30A(1A)(b) includes a reference to an officer other than a custody officer who is performing the functions of a custody officer by virtue of subsection (4) above.]

(8)References to a custody officer in [F178section 34 above or in] the following provisions of this Act include references to [F179an officer] other than a custody officer who is performing the functions of a custody officer by virtue of subsection (4) or (7) above.

(9)Where by virtue of subsection (7) above an officer of a force maintained by a [F180local policing body] who took an arrested person to a police station is to perform the functions of a custody officer in relation to him, the officer shall inform an officer who—

(a)is attached to a designated police station; and

(b)is of at least the rank of inspector,

that he is to do so.

(10)The duty imposed by subsection (9) above shall be performed as soon as it is practicable to perform it.

(11)F181. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F168Words in s. 36(2) substituted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c. 24, s. 107, Sch. 7 para. 13(2)

F169S. 36(2A) inserted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c. 24, s. 107, Sch. 7 para. 13(3)

F174Words in s. 36(7)(a) substituted (12.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 112(1), 116(6), Sch. 7 para. 123(3)(c)(i)

F175Words in s. 36(7)(b) substituted (12.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 112(1), 116(6), Sch. 7 para. 123(3)(c)(ii)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C307Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18-20, 21, 22(1)-(4), 28, 29, 30(1)-(4)(a)(5)-(11), 31, 32(1)-(9), 34(1)-(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40-44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)-(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3-11, Schs. 1, 2

C308S. 36 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3); s. 36 modified by the said S.I.1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3) as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 4(b)

C310S. 36 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

C316S. 36(7)(8) extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 1(2)(b), 3(2); s. 36(7)(8) extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(2), 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(b), 5

37 Duties of custody officer before charge.E+W

(1)Where—

(a)a person is arrested for an offence—

(i)without a warrant; or

(ii)under a warrant not endorsed for bail, F182. . .

(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

the custody officer at each police station where he is detained after his arrest shall determine whether he has before him sufficient evidence to charge that person with the offence for which he was arrested and may detain him at the police station for such period as is necessary to enable him to do so.

[F183(2)If—

(a)the custody officer (“C”) determines that C does not have such evidence before C, and

(b)the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied,

the person arrested must be released on bail (subject to subsection (3)).]

[F184(2A)If—

(a)the custody officer (“C”) determines that C does not have such evidence before C, and

(b)the pre-conditions for bail are not satisfied,

the person arrested must be released without bail (subject to subsection (3)).]

(3)If the custody officer has reasonable grounds for [F185believing that the person’s detention without being charged is necessary to secure or preserve evidence relating to an offence for which the person is under arrest or to obtain such evidence by questioning the person], he may authorise the person arrested to be kept in police detention.

(4)Where a custody officer authorises a person who has not been charged to be kept in police detention, he shall, as soon as is practicable, make a written record of the grounds for the detention.

(5)Subject to subsection (6) below, the written record shall be made in the presence of the person arrested who shall at that time be informed by the custody officer of the grounds for his detention.

(6)Subsection (5) above shall not apply where the person arrested is, at the time when the written record is made—

(a)incapable of understanding what is said to him;

(b)violent or likely to become violent; or

(c)in urgent need of medical attention.

[F186(6A)Subsection (6B) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (2) [F187or (2A)], and

(b)the custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(6B)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(6C)Subsection (6B) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

(7)Subject to section 41(7) below, if the custody officer determines that he has before him sufficient evidence to charge the person arrested with the offence for which he was arrested, the person arrested—

[F188(a)[F189 shall be—

(i)released without charge and on bail, or

(ii)kept in police detention,

for the purpose] of enabling the Director of Public Prosecutions to make a decision under section 37B below,

[F190(b)shall be released—

(i)without charge, and

(ii)if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, on bail,

but not for the purpose mentioned in paragraph (a),

(c)shall be released—

(i)without charge, and

(ii)if the pre-conditions for bail are not satisfied, without bail, or]

(d)shall be charged.]

[F191(7A)The decision as to how a person is to be dealt with under subsection (7) above shall be that of the custody officer.

(7B)Where a person is [F192dealt with under subsection (7)(a)] above, it shall be the duty of the custody officer to inform him that he is being released [F193, or (as the case may be) detained,] to enable the Director of Public Prosecutions to make a decision under section 37B below.]

(8)Where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (7)(b) [F194or (c)] above; and

(b)at the time of his release a decision whether he should be prosecuted for the offence for which he was arrested has not been taken,

it shall be the duty of the custody officer so to inform him.

[F195(8ZA)Where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (7)(b) or (c), and

(b)the custody officer makes a determination as mentioned in subsection (6A)(b),

subsections (6B) and (6C) apply.]

[F196(8A)Subsection (8B) applies if the offence for which the person is arrested is one in relation to which a sample could be taken under section 63B below and the custody officer—

(a)is required in pursuance of subsection (2) above to release the person arrested and decides to release him on bail, or

(b)decides in pursuance of subsection (7)(a) or [F197(b)] above to release the person without charge and on bail.

(8B)The detention of the person may be continued to enable a sample to be taken under section 63B, but this subsection does not permit a person to be detained for a period of more than 24 hours after the relevant time.]

(9)If the person arrested is not in a fit state to be dealt with under subsection (7) above, he may be kept in police detention until he is.

(10)The duty imposed on the custody officer under subsection (1) above shall be carried out by him as soon as practicable after the person arrested arrives at the police station or, in the case of a person arrested at the police station, as soon as practicable after the arrest.

F198(11). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F198(12). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F198(13). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F198(14). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(15)In this Part of this Act—

  • “arrested juvenile” means a person arrested with or without a warrant who appears to be [F199 under the age of 18 ] F200 . . .;

  • “endorsed for bail” means endorsed with a direction for bail in accordance with section 117(2) of the M27Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980.

Textual Amendments

F182S. 37(1)(b) and the word "or" preceeding it repealed (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, ss. 29(4)(a)(5), 168(3), Sch.11; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. AppendixB

F185Words in s. 37(3) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 54(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F186S. 37(6A)-(6C) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

F188S. 37(7)(a)-(d) substituted for s. 37(7)(a)(b) (29.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 28, 336, Sch. 2 para. 2(2); S.I. 2004/81, art. 4(1)(2)(c)

F189Words in s. 37(7)(a) substituted (15.1.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 11, 53; S.I. 2006/3364, art. 2(c)

F192Words in s. 37(7B) substituted (15.1.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 52, 53, Sch. 14 para. 9(a); S.I. 2006/3364, art. 2(j)(k) (as amended by S.I. 2007/29, art. 2)

F195S. 37(8ZA) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

F199Words in s. 37(15) substituted (26.10.2015) by Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 (c. 2), ss. 42, 95(1); S.I. 2015/1778, art. 3(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C321Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C322S. 37 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4(4)(a), 5(7)(a), 6(7)(a); s. 37 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 5, 6, 7

C324Ss. 37-37B modified (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), s. 31(4) (with s. 36(4))

C327S. 37(4)-(6) applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

Marginal Citations

[F20137AGuidanceE+W

(1)The Director of Public Prosecutions may issue guidance—

(a)for the purpose of enabling custody officers to decide how persons should be dealt with under section 37(7) above or 37C(2) [F202or 37CA(2)] below, and

(b)as to the information to be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions under section 37B(1) below.

(2)The Director of Public Prosecutions may from time to time revise guidance issued under this section.

(3)Custody officers are to have regard to guidance under this section in deciding how persons should be dealt with under section 37(7) above or 37C(2) [F203or 37CA(2)] below.

(4)A report under section 9 of the Prosecution of Offences Act 1985 (report by DPP to Attorney General) must set out the provisions of any guidance issued, and any revisions to guidance made, in the year to which the report relates.

(5)The Director of Public Prosecutions must publish in such manner as he thinks fit—

(a)any guidance issued under this section, and

(b)any revisions made to such guidance.

(6)Guidance under this section may make different provision for different cases, circumstances or areas.]

Textual Amendments

F202Words in s. 37A(1)(a) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 8(2); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F203Words in s. 37A(3) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 8(2); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C331Ss. 37-37B modified (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), s. 31(4) (with s. 36(4))

[F20437BConsultation with the Director of Public ProsecutionsE+W

(1)Where a person is [F205dealt with under section 37(7)(a)] above, an officer involved in the investigation of the offence shall, as soon as is practicable, send to the Director of Public Prosecutions such information as may be specified in guidance under section 37A above.

(2)The Director of Public Prosecutions shall decide whether there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence.

(3)If he decides that there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, he shall decide—

(a)whether or not the person should be charged and, if so, the offence with which he should be charged, and

(b)whether or not the person should be given a caution and, if so, the offence in respect of which he should be given a caution.

(4)The Director of Public Prosecutions [F206shall give notice] of his decision to an officer involved in the investigation of the offence.

[F207(4A)Notice under subsection (4) above shall be in writing, but in the case of a person kept in police detention under section 37(7)(a) above it may be given orally in the first instance and confirmed in writing subsequently.]

(5)If his decision is—

(a)that there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(b)that there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but that the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence,

a custody officer shall give the person notice in writing that he is not to be prosecuted.

[F208(5A)Subsection (5) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

(6)If the decision of the Director of Public Prosecutions is that the person should be charged with an offence, or given a caution in respect of an offence, the person shall be charged or cautioned accordingly.

(7)But if his decision is that the person should be given a caution in respect of the offence and it proves not to be possible to give the person such a caution [F209 (whether because of section 17 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 or for any other reason) ] , he shall instead be charged with the offence.

(8)For the purposes of this section, a person is to be charged with an offence either—

[F210(a)when he is in police detention at a police station (whether because he has returned to answer bail, because he is detained under section 37(7)(a) above or for some other reason), or]

(b)in accordance with section 29 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003.

F211(9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

Textual Amendments

F204S. 37B inserted (29.1.2004 for certain purposes, 3.7.2004 for certain further purposes and 1.10.2007 otherwise) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 28, 336, Sch. 2 para. 3; S.I. 2004/81, art. 4(1)(2)(c); S.I. 2004/1629, art. 2(1)(2)(b)(c): S.I. 2007/2874, art. 2

F205Words in s. 37B(1) substituted (15.1.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 52, 53, Sch. 14 para. 10(2); S.I. 2006/3364, art. 2(j)(k) (as amended by S.I. 2007/29, art. 2)

F206Words in s. 37B(4) substituted (15.1.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 52, 53, Sch. 14 para. 10(3); S.I. 2006/3364, art. 2(j)(k) (as amended by S.I. 2007/29, art. 2)

F208S. 37B(5A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(7), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

F211S. 37B(9) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(8), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C332Ss. 37-37B modified (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), s. 31(4) (with s. 36(4))

[F21237CBreach of bail following release under section 37(7)(a)E+W

(1)This section applies where—

(a)a person released on bail under section 37(7)(a) above or subsection (2)(b) below is arrested under section 46A below in respect of that bail, and

(b)at the time of his detention following that arrest at the police station mentioned in section 46A(2) below, notice under section 37B(4) above has not been given.

(2)The person arrested—

(a)shall be charged, or

(b)shall be released without charge, either on bail or without bail.

(3)The decision as to how a person is to be dealt with under subsection (2) above shall be that of a custody officer.

(4)A person released on bail under subsection (2)(b) above shall be released on bail subject to the same conditions (if any) which applied immediately before his arrest.]

Textual Amendments

[F21337CABreach of bail following release under [F214section 37(7)(b)] E+W

(1)This section applies where a person released on bail under [F215section 37(7)(b)] above or subsection (2)(b) below—

(a)is arrested under section 46A below in respect of that bail, and

(b)is being detained following that arrest at the police station mentioned in section 46A(2) below.

(2)The person arrested—

(a)shall be charged, or

[F216(b)shall be released—

(i)without charge, and

(ii)if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, on bail, or

(c)shall be released—

(i)without charge, and

(ii)if the pre-conditions for bail are not satisfied, without bail.]

(3)The decision as to how a person is to be dealt with under subsection (2) above shall be that of a custody officer.

(4)A person released on bail under subsection (2)(b) above shall be released on bail subject to the same conditions (if any) which applied immediately before his arrest [F217(and the reference in section 50A to any conditions of bail which would be imposed is to be read accordingly)].

[F218(5)Subsection (6) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (2), and

(b)a custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(6)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(7)Subsection (6) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]]

Textual Amendments

F217Words in s. 37CA(4) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 55(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F218S. 37CA(5)-(7) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 66(9), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

[F21937DRelease [F220on bail under section 37]: further provisionE+W

F221(1). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F221(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

F221(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)Where a person released on bail under section 37(7)(a) or 37C(2)(b) above returns to a police station to answer bail or is otherwise in police detention at a police station, he may be kept in police detention to enable him to be dealt with in accordance with section 37B or 37C above or to enable the power under [F222section 47(4A)] to be exercised.

[F223(4A)Where a person released on bail under [F224section 37(7)(b)] or 37CA(2)(b) above returns to a police station to answer bail or is otherwise in police detention at a police station, he may be kept in police detention to enable him to be dealt with in accordance with section 37CA above or to enable the power under [F222section 47(4A)] to be exercised.

(5)If the person mentioned in subsection (4) or (4A) above is not in a fit state to enable him to be dealt with as mentioned in that subsection or to enable the power under [F222section 47(4A)] to be exercised, he may be kept in police detention until he is.]

(6)Where a person is kept in police detention by virtue of subsection (4) [F225, (4A)] or (5) above, section 37(1) to (3) and (7) above (and section 40(8) below so far as it relates to section 37(1) to (3)) shall not apply to the offence in connection with which he was released on bail under section [F22637(7), 37C(2)(b) or 37CA(2)(b)] above.]

Textual Amendments

F220Words in s. 37D heading substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 9(2); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F221S. 37D(1)-(3) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 64(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 16 (with reg. 5)Text here

F222Words in s. 37D(4)-(5) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 64(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 16 (with reg. 5)

F223S. 37D(4A)(5) substituted (1.4.2007) for s. 37D(5) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 10(2); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F225Word in s. 37D(6) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 10(3)(a); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F226Words in s. 37D(6) substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 10(3)(b); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

38 Duties of custody officer after charge.E+W

(1)Where a person arrested for an offence otherwise than under a warrant endorsed for bail is charged with an offence, the custody officer shall [F227, subject to section 25 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994,] order his release from police detention, either on bail or without bail, unless—

(a)If the person arrested is not an arrested juvenile—

(i)his name or address cannot be ascertained or the custody officer has reasonable grounds for doubting whether a name or address furnished by him as his name or address is his real name or address;

[F228(ii)the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the person arrested will fail to appear in court to answer to bail;

(iii)in the case of a person arrested for an imprisonable offence, the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the detention of the person arrested is necessary to prevent him from committing an offence;

[F229(iiia)in a case where a sample may be taken from the person under section 63B below, the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the detention of the person is necessary to enable the sample to be taken from him;]

(iv)in the case of a person arrested for an offence which is not an imprisonable offence, the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the detention of the person arrested is necessary to prevent him from causing physical injury to any other person or from causing loss of or damage to property;

(v)the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the detention of the person arrested is necessary to prevent him from interfering with the administration of justice or with the investigation of offences or of a particular offence; or

(vi)the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that the detention of the person arrested is necessary for his own protection;]

(b)if he is an arrested juvenile—

(i)any of the requirements of paragraph (a) above is satisfied [F230(but, in the case of paragraph (a)(iiia) above, only if the arrested juvenile has attained the minimum age)]; or

(ii)the custody officer has reasonable grounds for believing that he ought to be detained in his own interests.

[F231(c)the offence with which the person is charged is murder.]

(2)If the release of a person arrested is not required by subsection (1) above, the custody officer may authorise him to be kept in police detention [F232but may not authorise a person to be kept in police detension by virtue of subsection (1)(a)(iiia) after the end of the period of six hours beginning when he was charged with the offence].

[F233(2A)The custody officer, in taking the decisions required by subsection (1)(a) and (b) above (except (a)(i) and (vi) and (b)(ii)), shall have regard to the same considerations as those which a court is required to have regard to in taking the corresponding decisions under paragraph [F2342(1)] of Part I of Schedule 1 to the M28Bail Act 1976 [F235(disregarding [F236paragraphs 1A and 2(2)] of that Part)].]

(3)Where a custody officer authorises a person who has been charged to be kept in police detention, he shall, as soon as practicable, make a written record of the grounds for the detention.

(4)Subject to subsection (5) below, the written record shall be made in the presence of the person charged who shall at that time be informed by the custody officer of the grounds for his detention.

(5)Subsection (4) above shall not apply where the person charged is, at the time when the written record is made—

(a)incapable of understanding what is said to him;

(b)violent or likely to become violent; or

(c)in urgent need of medical attention.

[F237(6)Where a custody officer authorises an arrested juvenile to be kept in police detention under subsection (1) above, the custody officer shall, unless he certifies—

(a)that, by reason of such circumstances as are specified in the certificate, it is impracticable for him to do so; or

(b)in the case of an arrested juvenile who has attained the [F238age of 12 years], that no secure accommodation is available and that keeping him in other local authority accommodation would not be adequate to protect the public from serious harm from him,

secure that the arrested juvenile is moved to local authority accommodation.

[F239(6A)In this section—

  • “local authority accommodation” means accommodation provided by or on behalf of a local authority (within the meaning of the Children Act 1989);

  • [F240“minimum age” means the age specified in [F241section 63B(3)(b) below];]

  • “secure accommodation” means accommodation provided for the purpose of restricting liberty;

  • [F242“sexual offence” means an offence specified in Part 2 of [F243Schedule 18 to the Sentencing Code];

  • [F244“terrorism offence” means an offence specified in Part 3 of that Schedule;]

  • “violent offence” means murder or an offence specified in Part 1 of that Schedule;]

and any reference, in relation to an arrested juvenile charged with a violent [F245, sexual or terrorism] offence, to protecting the public from serious harm from him shall be construed as a reference to protecting members of the public from death or serious personal injury, whether physical or psychological, occasioned by further such offences committed by him.]]

[F239(6B)Where an arrested juvenile is moved to local authority accommodation under subsection (6) above, it shall be lawful for any person acting on behalf of the authority to detain him.]

(7)A certificate made under subsection (6) above in respect of an arrested juvenile shall be produced to the court before which he is first brought thereafter.

[F246(7A)In this section “imprisonable offence” has the same meaning as in Schedule 1 to the Bail Act 1976.]

(8)In this Part of this Act “local authority” has the same meaning as in the [F247Children Act 1989].

Textual Amendments

F227Words in s. 38(1) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 54; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F228S. 38(1)(a)(ii)-(vi) substituted (10.4.1995) for sub-paras (ii)(iii) by 1994 c. 33, s. 28(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F229S. 38(1)(a)(iiia) substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 23(1), 24, Sch. 1 para. 3(a); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(f)

F230Words in s. 38(1)(b)(i) inserted (1.8.2004 for certain purposes and 1.12.2005 for further purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 5(2)(a)(ii), 336; S.I. 2004/1867, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3055, art. 2

F232Words in s. 38(2) inserted (for certain purposes on 20.6.2001, 2.7.2001, 20.5.2002, 2.9.2002, 1.4.2003, 1.4.2004, 1.4.2005 and 1.12.2005) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 57(3)(b), 80(1); S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(f); S.I. 2002/1149, art. 2; S.I. 2002/1862, art. 2; S.I. 2003/709, art. 2; S.I. 2004/780, art. 2; S.I. 2005/596, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3054, art. 2

F233S. 38(2A) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 28(3); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F237S. 38(6)(6A) substituted (1.10.1992) by Criminal Justice Act 1991 (c. 53), s. 59; S.I. 1992/333, art. 2(2), Sch. 2.

F238Words in s. 38(6)(b) substituted (3.2.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 24; S.I. 1995/127, art. 2(1), Sch. 1

F240S. 38(6A): definition of "minimum age" inserted (1.8.2004 for certain purposes and 1.12.2005 for further purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 5(2)(b), 336; S.I. 2004/1867, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3055, art. 2

F241S. 38(6A): words in the definition of "minimum age" substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 23(1), 24, Sch. 1 para. 3(b); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(f)

F242S. 38(6A): definitions of "sexual offence" and "violent offence" substituted (4.4.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 304, 336, Sch. 32 para. 44; S.I. 2005/950, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 paras. 23, 42(20) (subject to art. 2(2), Sch. 2) (as amended by S.I. 2005/2122, art. 2)

F246S. 38(7A) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 28(4); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C336S. 38 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

Marginal Citations

39 Responsibilities in relation to persons detained.E+W

(1)Subject to subsections (2) and (4) below, it shall be the duty of the custody officer at a police station to ensure—

(a)that all persons in police detention at that station are treated in accordance with this Act and any code of practice issued under it and relating to the treatment of persons in police detention; and

(b)that all matters relating to such persons which are required by this Act or by such codes of practice to be recorded are recorded in the custody records relating to such persons.

(2)If the custody officer, in accordance with any code of practice issued under this Act, transfers or permits the transfer of a person in police detention—

(a)to the custody of [F248another police officer at the police station where the person is in police detention, for the purpose of an interview that is part of the investigation of an offence for which the person is in police detention or otherwise in connection with the investigation of such an offence]; or

(b)to the custody of an officer who has charge of that person outside the police station,

the custody officer shall cease in relation to that person to be subject to the duty imposed on him by subsection (1)(a) above; and it shall be the duty of the officer to whom the transfer is made to ensure that he is treated in accordance with the provisions of this Act and of any such codes of practice as are mentioned in subsection (1) above.

(3)If the person detained is subsequently returned to the custody officer, it shall be the duty of the officer investigating the offence to report to the custody officer as to the manner in which this section and the codes of practice have been complied with while that person was in his custody.

[F249(3A)Subsections (3B) and (3C) apply if the custody officer, in accordance with any code of practice issued under this Act, transfers or permits the transfer of a person in police detention to an officer mentioned in subsection (2)(a) for the purpose of an interview that is to be conducted to any extent by means of a live link by another police officer who is investigating the offence but is not at the police station where the person in police detention is held at the time of the interview.

(3B)The officer who is not at the police station has the same duty as the officer mentioned in subsection (2)(a) to ensure that the person is treated in accordance with the provisions of this Act and of any such codes of practice as are mentioned in subsection (1).

(3C)If the person detained is subsequently returned to the custody of the custody officer, the officer who is not at the police station also has the same duty under subsection (3) as the officer mentioned in subsection (2)(a).

(3D)For the purpose of subsection (3C), subsection (3) applies as if the reference to “in his custody” were a reference to “being interviewed”.

(3E)In subsection (3A), “live link” means an arrangement by which the officer who is not at the police station is able to see and hear, and to be seen and heard by, the person in police detention, any legal representative of that person and the officer who has custody of that person at the police station (and for this purpose any impairment of eyesight or hearing is to be disregarded).]

(4)If an arrested juvenile is [F250moved to local authority accommodation] under section 38(6) above, the custody officer shall cease in relation to that person to be subject to the duty imposed on him by subsection (1) above.

F251(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6)Where—

(a)an officer of higher rank than the custody officer F252. . . gives directions relating to a person in police detention; and

(b)the directions are at variance—

(i)with any decision made or action taken by the custody officer in the performance of a duty imposed on him under this Part of this Act; or

(ii)with any decision or action which would but for the directions have been made or taken by him in the performance of such a duty,

the custody officer shall refer the matter at once to an officer of the rank of superintendent or above who is responsible for the police station for which the custody officer is acting as custody officer.

(7)F253. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F248Words in s. 39(2)(a) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 75(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 24

F249S. 39(3A)-(3E) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 75(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 24

F250Words in s. 39(4) substituted (14.10.1991) by Children Act 1989 (c. 41, SIF 20), s. 108(5), Sch. 13, para. 54; S.I. 1991/828, art. 3(2)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C337Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C338S. 39 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3).

S. 39 extended (27.7.1999) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 61(3), 68(4)(e) (with s. 63(2), Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2))

C339S. 39 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(1)-(3) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

40 Review of police detention.E+W

(1)Reviews of the detention of each person in police detention in connection with the investigation of an offence shall be carried out periodically in accordance with the following provisions of this section—

(a)in the case of a person who has been arrested and charged, by the custody officer; and

(b)in the case of a person who has been arrested but not charged, by an officer of at least the rank of inspector who has not been directly involved in the investigation.

(2)The officer to whom it falls to carry out a review is referred to in this section as a “review officer”.

(3)Subject to subsection (4) below—

(a)the first review shall be not later than six hours after the detention was first authorised;

(b)the second review shall be not later than nine hours after the first;

(c)subsequent reviews shall be at intervals of not more than nine hours.

(4)A review may be postponed—

(a)if, having regard to all the circumstances prevailing at the latest time for it specified in subsection (3) above, it is not practicable to carry out the review at that time;

(b)without prejudice to the generality of paragraph (a) above—

(i)if at that time the person in detention is being questioned by a police officer and the review officer is satisfied that an interruption of the questioning for the purpose of carrying out the review would prejudice the investigation in connection with which he is being questioned; or

(ii)if at that time no review officer is readily available.

(5)If a review is postponed under subsection (4) above it shall be carried out as soon as practicable after the latest time specified for it in subsection (3) above.

(6)If a review is carried out after postponement under subsection (4) above, the fact that it was so carried out shall not affect any requirement of this section as to the time at which any subsequent review is to be carried out.

(7)The review officer shall record the reasons for any postponement of a review in the custody record.

(8)Subject to subsection (9) below, where the person whose detention is under review has not been charged before the time of the review, section 37(1) to (6) above shall have effect in relation to him, but with [F254the modifications specified in subsection (8A)]

[F255(8A)The modifications are—

(a)the substitution of references to the person whose detention is under review for references to the person arrested;

(b)the substitution of references to the review officer for references to the custody officer; and

(c)in subsection (6), the insertion of the following paragraph after paragraph (a)—

“(aa)asleep;”]

(9)Where a person has been kept in police detention by virtue of section 37(9) [F256or 37D(5)] above, section 37(1) to (6) shall not have effect in relation to him but it shall be the duty of the review officer to determine whether he is yet in a fit state.

(10)Where the person whose detention is under review has been charged before the time of the review, section 38(1) to [F257(6B)] above shall have effect in relation to him, but with [F258the modifications specified in subsection (10A)] .

[F259(10A)The modifications are—

(a)the substitution of a reference to the person whose detention is under review for any reference to the person arrested or to the person charged; and

(b)in subsection (5), the insertion of the following paragraph after paragraph (a)—

“(aa)asleep;”]

(11)Where—

(a)an officer of higher rank than the review officer gives directions relating to a person in police detention; and

(b)the directions are at variance—

(i)with any decision made or action taken by the review officer in the performance of a duty imposed on him under this Part of this Act; or

(ii)with any decision or action which would but for the directions have been made or taken by him in the performance of such a duty,

the review officer shall refer the matter at once to an officer of the rank of superintendent or above who is responsible for the police station for which the review officer is acting as review officer in connection with the detention.

(12)Before determining whether to authorise a person’s continued detention the review officer shall give—

(a)that person (unless he is asleep); or

(b)any solicitor representing him who is available at the time of the review,

an opportunity to make representations to him about the detention.

(13)Subject to subsection (14) below, the person whose detention is under review or his solicitor may make representations under subsection (12) above either orally or in writing.

(14)The review officer may refuse to hear oral representations from the person whose detention is under review if he considers that he is unfit to make such representations by reason of his condition or behaviour.

Textual Amendments

F254Words in s. 40(8) substituted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {52(1)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

F255S. 40(8A) inserted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {52(2)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

F257Word in s. 40(10) substituted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {52(3)(a)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

F258Words in s. 40(10) substituted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {52(3)(b)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

F259S. 40(10A) inserted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {52(4)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C343Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C344S. 40 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4(4)(b), 5(7)(b), 6(7)(b); s. 40 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 5, 6, 7

C345S. 40 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(4) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

C349S. 40(13) amended by S.I. 1991/2684, arts. 1, 2, 4 and Sch.1

[F26040A Use of telephone for review under s. 40E+W

[F261(1)A review under section 40(1)(b) may be carried out by means of a discussion, conducted by telephone, with one or more persons at the police station where the arrested person is held.

(2)But subsection (1) does not apply if—

(a)the review is of a kind authorised by regulations under section 45A to be carried out using[F262a live link]; and

(b)it is reasonably practicable to carry it out in accordance with those regulations.]

(3)Where any review is carried out under this section by an officer who is not present at the station where the arrested person is held—

(a)any obligation of that officer to make a record in connection with the carrying out of the review shall have effect as an obligation to cause another officer to make the record;

(b)any requirement for the record to be made in the presence of the arrested person shall apply to the making of that record by that other officer; and

(c)the requirements under section 40(12) and (13) above for—

(i)the arrested person, or

(ii)a solicitor representing him,

to be given any opportunity to make representations (whether in writing or orally) to that officer shall have effect as a requirement for that person, or such a solicitor, to be given an opportunity to make representations in a manner authorised by subsection (4) below.

(4)Representations are made in a manner authorised by this subsection—

(a)in a case where facilities exist for the immediate transmission of written representations to the officer carrying out the review, if they are made either—

(i)orally by telephone to that officer; or

(ii)in writing to that officer by means of those facilities;

and

(b)in any other case, if they are made orally by telephone to that officer.

(5)In this section “[F263live link]” has the same meaning as in section 45A below.]

Textual Amendments

F260S. 40A inserted (1.10.2001) by 2001 c. 16, s. 72(3); S.I. 2001/3150, art. 2(a)

F261S. 40A(1)(2) substituted (20.1.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 6, 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F262Words in s. 40A(2)(a) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss., 74(5)(a), 183(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F263Words in s. 40A(5) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force ) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss., 75(5)(b), 183(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 24

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

41 Limits on period of detention without charge.E+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section and to sections 42 and 43 below, a person shall not be kept in police detention for more than 24 hours without being charged.

(2)The time from which the period of detention of a person is to be calculated (in this Act referred to as “the relevant time”)—

(a)in the case of a person to whom this paragraph applies, shall be—

(i)the time at which that person arrives at the relevant police station; or

(ii)the time 24 hours after the time of that person’s arrest,

whichever is the earlier;

(b)in the case of a person arrested outside England and Wales, shall be—

(i)the time at which that person arrives at the first police station to which he is taken in the police area in England or Wales in which the offence for which he was arrested is being investigated; or

(ii)the time 24 hours after the time of that person’s entry into England and Wales,

whichever is the earlier;

(c)in the case of a person who—

(i)attends voluntarily at a police station; or

(ii)accompanies a constable to a police station without having been arrested,

and is arrested at the police station, the time of his arrest;

[F264(ca)in the case of a person who attends a police station to answer to bail granted under section 30A, the time when he arrives at the police station;]

(d)in any other case, except where subsection (5) below applies, shall be the time at which the person arrested arrives at the first police station to which he is taken after his arrest.

(3)Subsection (2)(a) above applies to a person if—

(a)his arrest is sought in one police area in England and Wales;

(b)he is arrested in another police area; and

(c)he is not questioned in the area in which he is arrested in order to obtain evidence in relation to an offence for which he is arrested;

and in sub-paragraph (i) of that paragraph “the relevant police station” means the first police station to which he is taken in the police area in which his arrest was sought.

(4)Subsection (2) above shall have effect in relation to a person arrested under section 31 above as if every reference in it to his arrest or his being arrested were a reference to his arrest or his being arrested for the offence for which he was originally arrested.

(5)If—

(a)a person is in police detention in a police area in England and Wales (“the first area”); and

(b)his arrest for an offence is sought in some other police area in England and Wales (“the second area”); and

(c)he is taken to the second area for the purposes of investigating that offence, without being questioned in the first area in order to obtain evidence in relation to it,

the relevant time shall be—

(i)the time 24 hours after he leaves the place where he is detained in the first area; or

(ii)the time at which he arrives at the first police station to which he is taken in the second area,

whichever is the earlier.

(6)When a person who is in police detention is removed to hospital because he is in need of medical treatment, any time during which he is being questioned in hospital or on the way there or back by a police officer for the purpose of obtaining evidence relating to an offence shall be included in any period which falls to be calculated for the purposes of this Part of this Act, but any other time while he is in hospital or on his way there or back shall not be so included.

(7)Subject to subsection (8) below, a person who at the expiry of 24 hours after the relevant time is in police detention and has not been charged shall be released at that time [F265—

[F266(a)on bail, if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, or

(b)without bail, if those pre-conditions are not satisfied.]]

(8)Subsection (7) above does not apply to a person whose detention for more than 24 hours after the relevant time has been authorised or is otherwise permitted in accordance with section 42 or 43 below.

(9)A person released under subsection (7) above shall not be re-arrested without a warrant for the offence for which he was previously arrested unless [F267, since the person’s release, new evidence has come to light or an examination or analysis of existing evidence has been made which could not reasonably have been made before] his release[F268; but this subsection does not prevent an arrest under section 46A below.]

[F269(10)Subsection (11) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (7), and

(b)a custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(11)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(12)Subsection (11) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

[F270(13)Section 47(6) and (6A) makes further provision about the calculation of a period of police detention for the purposes of this Part.]

Textual Amendments

F265Words in s. 41(7) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 56(1), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F267Words in s. 41(9) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 65(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 17 (with reg. 5)

F268Words in s. 41(9) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(4)(b)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2,Sch.

F269S. 41(10)-(12) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 67(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C353Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b)(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C354S. 41 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 2(6); s. 41 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 2, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3, 6, 7

S. 41 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4(4)(b), 5(7)(b), 6(7)(b); s. 41 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 5, 6, 7

42 Authorisation of continued detention.E+W

(1)Where a police officer of the rank of superintendent or above who is responsible for the police station at which a person is detained has reasonable grounds for believing that—

(a)the detention of that person without charge is necessary to secure or preserve evidence relating to an offence for which he is under arrest or to obtain such evidence by questioning him;

[F271(b)an offence for which he is under arrest is an [F272indictable] offence; and]

(c)the investigation is being conducted diligently and expeditiously,

he may authorise the keeping of that person in police detention for a period expiring at or before 36 hours after the relevant time.

(2)Where an officer such as is mentioned in subsection (1) above has authorised the keeping of a person in police detention for a period expiring less than 36 hours after the relevant time, such an officer may authorise the keeping of that person in police detention for a further period expiring not more than 36 hours after that time if the conditions specified in subsection (1) above are still satisfied when he gives the authorisation.

(3)If it is proposed to transfer a person in police detention to another police area, the officer determining whether or not to authorise keeping him in detention under subsection (1) above shall have regard to the distance and the time the journey would take.

(4)No authorisation under subsection (1) above shall be given in respect of any person—

(a)more than 24 hours after the relevant time; or

(b)before the second review of his detention under section 40 above has been carried out.

(5)Where an officer authorises the keeping of a person in police detention under subsection (1) above, it shall be his duty—

(a)to inform that person of the grounds for his continued detention; and

(b)to record the grounds in that person’s custody record.

(6)Before determining whether to authorise the keeping of a person in detention under subsection (1) or (2) above, an officer shall give—

(a)that person; or

(b)any solicitor representing him who is available at the time when it falls to the officer to determine whether to give the authorisation,

an opportunity to make representations to him about the detention.

(7)Subject to subsection (8) below, the person in detention or his solicitor may make representations under subsection (6) above either orally or in writing.

(8)The officer to whom it falls to determine whether to give the authorisation may refuse to hear oral representations from the person in detention if he considers that he is unfit to make such representations by reason of his condition or behaviour.

(9)Where—

(a)an officer authorises the keeping of a person in detention under subsection (1) above; and

(b)at the time of the authorisation he has not yet exercised a right conferred on him by section 56 or 58 below,

the officer—

(i)shall inform him of that right;

(ii)shall decide whether he should be permitted to exercise it;

(iii)shall record the decision in his custody record; and

(iv)if the decision is to refuse to permit the exercise of the right, shall also record the grounds for the decision in that record.

(10)Where an officer has authorised the keeping of a person who has not been charged in detention under subsection (1) or (2) above, he shall be released from detentionF273..., not later than 36 hours after the relevant time [F274—

[F275(a)on bail, if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, or

(b)without bail, if those pre-conditions are not satisfied,

subject to subsection (10A).]].

[F276(10A)Subsection (10) does not apply if—

(a)the person has been charged with an offence, or

(b)the person’s continued detention is authorised or otherwise permitted in accordance with section 43.]

(11)A person released under subsection (10) above shall not be re-arrested without a warrant for the offence for which he was previously arrested unless [F277, since the person’s release, new evidence has come to light or an examination or analysis of existing evidence has been made which could not reasonably have been made before] his release[F278; but this subsection does not prevent an arrest under section 46A below.]

[F279(12)Subsection (13) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (10), and

(b)a custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(13)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(14)Subsection (13) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

Textual Amendments

F273Words in s. 42(10) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 56(3)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F274Words in s. 42(10) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 56(3)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F276S. 42(10A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 56(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F277Words in s. 42(11) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 65(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 17 (with reg. 5)

F278Words in s. 42(11) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(4)(b)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F279S. 42(12)-(14) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 67(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C357Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C358s. 42 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4(4)(b), 5(7)(b), 6(7)(b); s. 42 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 5, 6, 7

C362S. 42(7) amended by S.I. 1991/2684, arts. 1, 2, 4 and Sch. 1

43 Warrants of further detention. E+W

(1)Where, on an application on oath made by a constable and supported by an information, a magistrates’ court is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the further detention of the person to whom the application relates is justified, it may issue a warrant of further detention authorising the keeping of that person in police detention.

(2)A court may not hear an application for a warrant of further detention unless the person to whom the application relates—

(a)has been furnished with a copy of the information; and

(b)has been brought before the court for the hearing.

(3)The person to whom the application relates shall be entitled to be legally represented at the hearing and, if he is not so represented but wishes to be so represented—

(a)the court shall adjourn the hearing to enable him to obtain representation; and

(b)he may be kept in police detention during the adjournment.

(4)A person’s further detention is only justified for the purposes of this section or section 44 below if—

(a)his detention without charge is necessary to secure or preserve evidence relating to an offence for which he is under arrest or to obtain such evidence by questioning him;

(b)an offence for which he is under arrest is [F280an indictable offence] ; and

(c)the investigation is being conducted diligently and expeditiously.

(5)Subject to subsection (7) below, an application for a warrant of further detention may be made—

(a)at any time before the expiry of 36 hours after the relevant time; or

(b)in a case where—

(i)it is not practicable for the magistrates’ court to which the application will be made to sit at the expiry of 36 hours after the relevant time; but

(ii)the court will sit during the 6 hours following the end of that period,

at any time before the expiry of the said 6 hours.

(6)In a case to which subsection (5)(b) above applies—

(a)the person to whom the application relates may be kept in police detention until the application is heard; and

(b)the custody officer shall make a note in that person’s custody record—

(i)of the fact that he was kept in police detention for more than 36 hours after the relevant time; and

(ii)of the reason why he was so kept.

(7)If—

(a)an application for a warrant of further detention is made after the expiry of 36 hours after the relevant time; and

(b)it appears to the magistrates’ court that it would have been reasonable for the police to make it before the expiry of that period,

the court shall dismiss the application.

(8)Where on an application such as is mentioned in subsection (1) above a magistrates’ court is not satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the further detention of the person to whom the application relates is justified, it shall be its duty—

(a)to refuse the application; or

(b)to adjourn the hearing of it until a time not later than 36 hours after the relevant time.

(9)The person to whom the application relates may be kept in police detention during the adjournment.

(10)A warrant of further detention shall—

(a)state the time at which it is issued;

(b)authorise the keeping in police detention of the person to whom it relates for the period stated in it.

(11)Subject to subsection (12) below, the period stated in a warrant of further detention shall be such period as the magistrates’ court thinks fit, having regard to the evidence before it.

(12)The period shall not be longer than 36 hours.

(13)If it is proposed to transfer a person in police detention to a police area other than that in which he is detained when the application for a warrant of further detention is made, the court hearing the application shall have regard to the distance and the time the journey would take.

(14)Any information submitted in support of an application under this section shall state—

(a)the nature of the offence for which the person to whom the application relates has been arrested;

(b)the general nature of the evidence on which that person was arrested;

(c)what inquiries relating to the offence have been made by the police and what further inquiries are proposed by them;

(d)the reasons for believing the continued detention of that person to be necessary for the purposes of such further inquiries.

(15)Where an application under this section is refused, the person to whom the application relates shall forthwith be charged or, subject to subsection (16) below, released [F281—

[F282(a)on bail, if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, or

(b)without bail, if those pre-conditions are not satisfied.]]

(16)A person need not be released under subsection (15) above—

(a)before the expiry of 24 hours after the relevant time; or

(b)before the expiry of any longer period for which his continued detention is or has been authorised under section 42 above.

(17)Where an application under this section is refused, no further application shall be made under this section in respect of the person to whom the refusal relates, unless supported by evidence which has come to light since the refusal.

(18)Where a warrant of further detention is issued, the person to whom it relates shall [F283, unless the person is charged, be released from police detention upon or before the expiry of the warrant—

[F284(a)on bail, if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, or

(b)without bail, if those pre-conditions are not satisfied.]]

(19)A person released under subsection (18) above shall not be re-arrested without a warrant for the offence for which he was previously arrested unless [F285, since the person’s release, new evidence has come to light or an examination or analysis of existing evidence has been made which could not reasonably have been made before] his release[F286; but this subsection does not prevent an arrest under section 46A below.]

[F287(20)Subsection (21) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (15) or (18), and

(b)a custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(21)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(22)Subsection (21) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

Textual Amendments

F281Words in s. 43(15) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 57(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F283Words in s. 43(18) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 57(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F285Words in s. 43(19) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 65(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 17 (with reg. 5)

F286Words in s. 43(19) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(4)(b)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F287S. 43(20)-(22) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 67(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C364Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C365S. 43 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(4)(b), 5(7)(b), 6(7)(b); s. 43 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4, 5, 6 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 5, 6, 7

44 Extension of warrants of further detention.E+W

(1)On an application on oath made by a constable and supported by an information a magistrates’ court may extend a warrant of further detention issued under section 43 above if it is satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the further detention of the person to whom the application relates is justified.

(2)Subject to subsection (3) below, the period for which a warrant of further detention may be extended shall be such period as the court thinks fit, having regard to the evidence before it.

(3)The period shall not—

(a)be longer than 36 hours; or

(b)end later than 96 hours after the relevant time.

(4)Where a warrant of further detention has been extended under subsection (1) above, or further extended under this subsection, for a period ending before 96 hours after the relevant time, on an application such as is mentioned in that subsection a magistrates’ court may further extend the warrant if it is satisfied as there mentioned; and subsections (2) and (3) above apply to such further extensions as they apply to extensions under subsection (1) above.

(5)A warrant of further detention shall, if extended or further extended under this section, be endorsed with a note of the period of the extension.

(6)Subsections (2), (3) and (14) of section 43 above shall apply to an application made under this section as they apply to an application made under that section.

(7)Where an application under this section is refused, the person to whom the application relates shall forthwith be charged or, subject to subsection (8) below, released [F288—

[F289(a)on bail, if the pre-conditions for bail are satisfied, or

(b)without bail, if those pre-conditions are not satisfied.]]

(8)A person need not be released under subsection (7) above before the expiry of any period for which a warrant of further detention issued in relation to him has been extended or further extended on an earlier application made under this section.

[F290(9)Subsection (10) applies where—

(a)a person is released under subsection (7), and

(b)a custody officer determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(10)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(11)Subsection (10) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.]

Textual Amendments

F288Words in s. 44(7) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 57(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

F290S. 44(9)-(11) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 67(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 18

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C369Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

45 Detention before charge—supplementary.E+W

(1)In [F291sections 43, 44 and 45ZB] of this Act “magistrates’ court” means a court consisting of two or more justices of the peace sitting otherwise than in open court.

(2)Any reference in this Part of this Act to a period of time or a time of day is to be treated as approximate only.

Textual Amendments

F291Words in s. 45(1) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

[F292Use of live linksE+W

Textual Amendments

F292Ss. 45ZA, 45ZB and cross-heading inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

45ZAFunctions of extending detention: use of live linksE+W

(1)The functions of a police officer under section 42(1) or (2) may be performed, in relation to an arrested person who is held at a police station, by an officer who is not present at the police station but has access to the use of a live link if—

(a)a custody officer considers that the use of the live link is appropriate,

(b)the arrested person has had advice from a solicitor on the use of the live link, and

(c)the appropriate consent to the use of the live link has been given.

(2)In subsection (1)(c), “the appropriate consent” means—

(a)in relation to a person who has attained the age of 18, the consent of that person;

(b)in relation to a person who has not attained that age but has attained the age of 14, the consent of that person and of his or her parent or guardian;

(c)in relation to a person who has not attained the age of 14, the consent of his or her parent or guardian.

(3)The consent of a person who has not attained the age of 18 (but has attained the age of 14), or who is a vulnerable adult, may only be given in the presence of an appropriate adult.

(4)Section 42 applies with the modifications set out in subsections (5) to (7) below in any case where the functions of a police officer under that section are, by virtue of subsection (1), performed by an officer who is not at the police station where the arrested person is held.

(5)Subsections (5)(b) and (9)(iii) and (iv) of that section are each to be read as if, instead of requiring the officer to make a record, they required the officer to cause another police officer to make a record.

(6)Subsection (6) of that section is to be read as if it required the officer to give the persons mentioned in that subsection an opportunity to make representations—

(a)if facilities exist for the immediate transmission of written representations to the officer, either in writing by means of those facilities or orally by means of the live link, or

(b)in any other case, orally by means of the live link.

(7)Subsection (9) of that section is to be read as if the reference in paragraph (b) to the right conferred by section 58 were omitted.

(8)In this section—

  • “live link” means an arrangement by which an officer who is not present at the police station where an arrested person is held is able to see and hear, and to be seen and heard by, the arrested person and the arrested person’s solicitor (and for this purpose any impairment of eyesight or hearing is to be disregarded);

  • “vulnerable adult” means a person aged 18 or over who may have difficulty understanding the purpose of an authorisation under section 42(1) or (2) or anything that occurs in connection with a decision whether to give such an authorisation (whether because of a mental disorder or for any other reason);

  • “appropriate adult”, in relation to a person who has not attained the age of 18, means—

    (a)

    the persons’s parent or guardian or, if the person is in the care of a local authority or voluntary organisation, a person representing that authority or organisation,

    (b)

    a social worker of a local authority, or

    (c)

    if no person falling within paragraph (a) or (b) is available, any responsible person aged 18 or over who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes;

  • “appropriate adult”, in relation to a vulnerable adult, means—

    (a)

    a relative, guardian or other person responsible for the vulnerable adult’s care,

    (b)

    a person who is experienced in dealing with vulnerable adults but who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes, or

    (c)

    if no person falling within paragraph (a) or (b) is available, any responsible person aged 18 or over who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes.

(9)In subsection (8), in both definitions of “appropriate adult”, “police purposes” has the meaning given by section 101(2) of the Police Act 1996.

45ZBWarrants for further detention: use of live linksE+W

(1)A magistrates’ court may give a live link direction for the purpose of the hearing of an application under section 43 for a warrant authorising further detention of a person, or the hearing of an application under section 44 for an extension of such a warrant, if—

(a)a custody officer considers that the use of a live link for that purpose is appropriate,

(b)the person to whom the application relates has had legal advice on the use of the live link,

(c)the appropriate consent to the use of the live link has been given, and

(d)it is not contrary to the interests of justice to give the direction.

(2)In subsection (1)(c), “the appropriate consent” means—

(a)in relation to a person who has attained the age of 18, the consent of that person;

(b)in relation to a person who has not attained that age but has attained the age of 14, the consent of that person and of his or her parent or guardian;

(c)in relation to a person who has not attained the age of 14, the consent of his or her parent or guardian.

(3)Where a live link direction is given, the requirement under section 43(2)(b) for the person to whom the application relates to be brought before the court for the hearing does not apply.

(4)In this section—

  • “live link direction” means a direction that a live link be used for the purposes of the hearing;

  • “live link” means an arrangement by which a person (when not in the place where the hearing is being held) is able to see and hear, and to be seen and heard by, the court during a hearing (and for this purpose any impairment of eyesight or hearing is to be disregarded);

  • “vulnerable adult” means a person aged 18 or over who may have difficulty understanding the purpose of the hearing or what occurs at it (whether because of a mental disorder or for any other reason);

  • “appropriate adult”, in relation to a person aged under 18, means—

    (a)

    the person’s parent or guardian or, if the person is in the care of a local authority or voluntary organisation, a person representing that authority or organisation,

    (b)

    a social worker of a local authority, or

    (c)

    if no person falling within paragraph (a) or (b) is available, any responsible person aged 18 or over who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes;

  • “appropriate adult”, in relation to a vulnerable adult, means—

    (a)

    a relative, guardian or other person responsible for the appropriate adult’s care,

    (b)

    a person who is experienced in dealing with vulnerable adults but who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes, or

    (c)

    if no person falling within paragraph (a) or (b) is available, any responsible person aged 18 or over who is not a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes.

(5)In subsection (4), in both definitions of “appropriate adult”, “police purposes” has the meaning given by section 101(2) of the Police Act 1996.]

[F29345A [F294Use of live links for other decisions about detention]E+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, the Secretary of State may by regulations provide that, in the case of an arrested person who is held in a police station, some or all of the functions mentioned in subsection (2) may be performed (notwithstanding anything in the preceding provisions of this Part) by an officer who—

(a)is not present in that police station; but

(b)has access to the use of[F295a live link].

(2)Those functions are—

(a)the functions in relation to an arrested person taken to [F296, or answering to bail at,] a police station that is not a designated police station which, in the case of an arrested person taken to a station that is a designated police station, are functions of a custody officer under section 37, 38 or 40 above; and

(b)the function of carrying out a review under section 40(1)(b) above (review, by an officer of at least the rank of inspector, of the detention of person arrested but not charged).

(3)Regulations under this section shall specify the use to be made in the performance of the functions mentioned in subsection (2) above of [F297a live link].

(4)Regulations under this section shall not authorise the performance of any of the functions mentioned in subsection (2)(a) above by such an officer as is mentioned in subsection (1) above unless he is a custody officer for a designated police station.

(5)Where any functions mentioned in subsection (2) above are performed in a manner authorised by regulations under this section—

(a)any obligation of the officer performing those functions to make a record in connection with the performance of those functions shall have effect as an obligation to cause another officer to make the record; and

(b)any requirement for the record to be made in the presence of the arrested person shall apply to the making of that record by that other officer.

(6)Where the functions mentioned in subsection (2)(b) are performed in a manner authorised by regulations under this section, the requirements under section 40(12) and (13) above for—

(a)the arrested person, or

(b)a solicitor representing him,

to be given any opportunity to make representations (whether in writing or orally) to the person performing those functions shall have effect as a requirement for that person, or such a solicitor, to be given an opportunity to make representations in a manner authorised by subsection (7) below.

(7)Representations are made in a manner authorised by this subsection—

(a)in a case where facilities exist for the immediate transmission of written representations to the officer performing the functions, if they are made either—

(i)orally to that officer by means of [F298the live link] used by him for performing those functions; or

(ii)in writing to that officer by means of the facilities available for the immediate transmission of the representations;

and

(b)in any other case if they are made orally to that officer by means of [F299the live link] used by him for performing the functions.

(8)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and may be made so as to have effect in relation only to the police stations specified or described in the regulations.

(9)Regulations under this section shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

[F300(10)In this section, “live link”, in relation to any functions, means an arrangement by which the functions may be performed by an officer who is not present at the police station where an arrested person is held but who is able (for the purpose of the functions) to see and hear, and to be seen and heard by, the arrested person and any legal representative of that person (and for this purpose any impairment of eyesight or hearing is to be disregarded).]]

Textual Amendments

F293S. 45A inserted (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 73(3), 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(d)

F294S. 45A heading substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F295Words in s. 45A(1)(b) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F297Words in s. 45A(3) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(c), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F298Words in s. 45A(7)(a)(i) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(d), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F299Words in s. 45A(7)(b) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(d), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

F300S. 45A(10) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 74(4)(e), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 23

Detention—miscellaneousE+W

46 Detention after charge.E+W

(1)Where a person—

(a)is charged with an offence; and

(b)after being charged—

(i)is kept in police detention; or

(ii)is detained by a local authority in pursuance of arrangements made under section 38(6) above,

he shall be brought before a magistrates’ court in accordance with the provisions of this section.

(2)If he is to be brought before a magistrates’ court [F301in the local justice] area in which the police station at which he was charged is situated, he shall be brought before such a court as soon as is practicable and in any event not later than the first sitting after he is charged with the offence.

(3)If no magistrates’ court [F302in that area] is due to sit either on the day on which he is charged or on the next day, the custody officer for the police station at which he was charged shall inform the [F303designated officer]for the area that there is a person in the area to whom subsection (2) above applies.

(4)If the person charged is to be brought before a magistrates’ court [F304in a local justice] area other than that in which the police station at which he was charged is situated, he shall be removed to that area as soon as is practicable and brought before such a court as soon as is practicable after his arrival in the area and in any event not later than the first sitting of a magistrates’ court [F305in that area] after his arrival in the area.

(5)If no magistrates’ court [F306in that area] is due to sit either on the day on which he arrives in the area or on the next day—

(a)he shall be taken to a police station in the area; and

(b)the custody officer at that station shall inform the [F307designated officer] for the area that there is a person in the area to whom subsection (4) applies.

(6)Subject to subsection (8) below, where [F308the designated officer for a local justice] area has been informed—

(a)under subsection (3) above that there is a person in the area to whom subsection (2) above applies; or

(b)under subsection (5) above that there is a person in the area to whom subsection (4) above applies,

[F309the designated officer] shall arrange for a magistrates’ court to sit not later than the day next following the relevant day.

(7)In this section “the relevant day”—

(a)in relation to a person who is to be brought before a magistrates’ court [F310in the local justice] area in which the police station at which he was charged is situated, means the day on which he was charged; and

(b)in relation to a person who is to be brought before a magistrates’ court [F311in any other local justice] area, means the day on which he arrives in the area.

(8)Where the day next following the relevant day is Christmas Day, Good Friday or a Sunday, the duty of the [F312designated officer] under subsection (6) above is a duty to arrange for a magistrates’ court to sit not later than the first day after the relevant day which is not one of those days.

(9)Nothing in this section requires a person who is in hospital to be brought before a court if he is not well enough.

Textual Amendments

F301Words in s. 46(2) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 282(2); S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

F312Words in s. 46(8) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 282(8); S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C373S. 46 excluded (4.4.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 88(2), 336; S.I. 2005/950, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 5 (subject to art. 2(2), Sch. 2) (as amended by S.I. 2005/2122, art. 2)

[F31346ZAPersons granted live link bailE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to bail granted under this Part subject to the duty mentioned in section 47(3)(b)(“live link bail”).

(2)An accused person who attends a police station to answer to live link bail is not to be treated as in police detention for the purposes of this Act.

(3)Subsection (2) does not apply in relation to an accused person if—

[F314(a)at any time before the beginning of proceedings in relation to a live link direction under section 57C of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 in relation to him, he informs a constable that he does not intend to give his consent to the direction;]

(b)[F315at any time before the beginning of [F316the proceedings referred to in section 47(3)(b)(i)],] a constable informs him that a live link will not be available for his use for the purposes of [F317those proceedings];

[F318(c)proceedings in relation to a live link direction under that section have begun but he does not give his consent to the direction; or]

(d)the court determines for [F319any reason] not to give [F320a direction of the sort referred to in section 47(3)(b)(ii)].

(4)If [F321paragraph (b) or (d) of subsection (3) applies] in relation to a person, he is to be treated for the purposes of this Part—

(a)as if he had been arrested for and charged with the offence in connection with which he was granted bail, and

(b)as if he had been so charged at the time when that paragraph first applied in relation to him.

(5)An accused person who is arrested under section 46A for failing to attend at a police station to answer to live link bail, and who is brought to a police station in accordance with that section, is to be treated for the purposes of this Part—

(a)as if he had been arrested for and charged with the offence in connection with which he was granted bail, and

(b)as if he had been so charged at the time when he is brought to the station.

(6)Nothing in subsection (4) or (5) affects the operation of section 47(6).]

Textual Amendments

F313S. 46ZA inserted (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(3), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

F314S. 46ZA(3)(a) repealed (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2010 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 107(2)(a)(i), 182(5), Sch. 23 Pt. 3 (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2010/816, art. 4; S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(b)(e)

F315Words in s. 46ZA(3)(b) substituted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 107(2)(a)(ii), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(b)

F318S. 46ZA(3)(c) repealed (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 6.4.2010 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 107(2)(a)(iii), 182(5), Sch. 23 Pt. 3 (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2010/816, art. 4; S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(b)(e)

F319Words in s. 46ZA(3)(d) substituted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 107(2)(a)(iv), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(b)

F321Words in s. 46ZA(4) substituted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 107(2)(b), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(b)

[F32246A Power of arrest for failure to answer to police bail.E+W

(1)A constable may arrest without a warrant any person who, having been released on bail under this Part of this Act subject to a duty to attend at a police station, fails to attend at that police station at the time appointed for him to do so.

[F323(1ZA)The reference in subsection (1) to a person who fails to attend at a police station at the time appointed for him to do so includes a reference to a person who—

(a)attends at a police station to answer to bail granted subject to the duty mentioned in section 47(3)(b), but

(b)leaves the police station at any time before the beginning of [F324the proceedings referred to in sub-paragraph (i) of that provision].]

[F325(1ZB)The reference in subsection (1) to a person who fails to attend at a police station at the time appointed for the person to do so includes a reference to a person who—

(a)attends at a police station to answer to bail granted subject to the duty mentioned in section 47(3)(b), but

(b)refuses to be searched under section 54B.]

[F326(1A)A person who has been released on bail under [F327this Part] may be arrested without warrant by a constable if the constable has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the person has broken any of the conditions of bail.]

(2)A person who is arrested under this section shall be taken to the police station appointed as the place at which he is to surrender to custody as soon as practicable after the arrest.

(3)For the purposes of—

(a)section 30 above (subject to the obligation in subsection (2) above), and

(b)section 31 above,

an arrest under this section shall be treated as an arrest for an offence.]

Textual Amendments

F322S. 46A inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(2)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2,Sch.

F323S. 46A(1ZA) inserted (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(4), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

F325S. 46A(1ZB) inserted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 108(2), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(c); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(c)

F327Words in s. 46A(1A) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 61(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 13

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C375S. 46A applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(5)(b) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

47 Bail after arrest.E+W

(1)[F328Subject to the following provisions of this section], a release on bail of a person under this Part of this Act shall be a release on bail granted in accordance with [F329sections 3, 3A, 5 and 5A of the Bail Act 1976 as they apply to bail granted by a constable].

[F330(1A)The normal powers to impose conditions of bail shall be available to him where a custody officer releases a person on bail under [F331this Part (except sections 37C(2)(b) and 37CA(2)(b))]. In this subsection, “the normal powers to impose conditions of bail” has the meaning given in section 3(6) of the Bail Act 1976.]

[F332(1B)No application may be made under section 5B of the Bail Act 1976 if a person is released on bail under section F333[F334... 37C(2)(b) or 37CA(2)(b)] above.

(1C)Subsections (1D) to (1F) below apply where a person released on bail under section F335[F336... 37C(2)(b) or 37CA(2)(b)] above is on bail subject to conditions.

(1D)The person shall not be entitled to make an application under section 43B of the Magistrates' Courts Act 1980.

(1E) A magistrates' court may, on an application by or on behalf of the person, vary the conditions of bail; and in this subsection “vary” has the same meaning as in the Bail Act 1976.

(1F)Where a magistrates' court varies the conditions of bail under subsection (1E) above, that bail shall not lapse but shall continue subject to the conditions as so varied.]

(2)Nothing in the Bail Act 1976 shall prevent the re-arrest without warrant of a person released on bail subject to a duty to attend at a police station if [F337, since the person’s release, new evidence has come to light or an examination or analysis of existing evidence has been made which could not reasonably have been made before the person’s release].

(3)Subject to [F338subsections (3A) and (4)] below, in this Part of this Act references to “bail” are references to bail subject to a duty—

[F339(a)to appear before a magistrates' court at such time and such place as the custody officer may appoint;

(b)to attend at such police station as the custody officer may appoint at such time as he may appoint for the purposes of—

[F340(i)proceedings held for the purposes of section 51 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 (directions for live links in criminal proceedings) so far as that section applies to preliminary hearings (within the meaning of that section), and

(ii)any such hearing in relation to which a direction under that section is given requiring or permitting the person on bail to take part through a live audio link or a live video link (within the meaning of that section);]

(c)to attend at such police station as the custody officer may appoint at such time as he may appoint for purposes other than those mentioned in paragraph (b) [F341(subject to section 47ZA)].]

[F342(3A)Where a custody officer grants bail to a person subject to a duty to appear before a magistrates’ court, he shall appoint for the appearance—

(a)a date which is not later than the first sitting of the court after the person is charged with the offence; or

(b)where he is informed by the [F343designated officer for the relevant local justice] area that the appearance cannot be accommodated until a later date, that later date.]

(4)Where a custody officer has granted bail to a person subject to a duty to appear at a police station, the custody officer may give notice in writing to that person that his attendance at the police station is not required.

[F344(4A)Where a person has been granted bail under this Part subject to a duty to attend at a police station, a custody officer may subsequently appoint a different time, or an additional time, at which the person is to attend at the police station to answer bail.

(4B)The custody officer must give the person notice in writing of the exercise of the power under subsection (4A).

(4C)The exercise of the power under subsection (4A) does not affect the conditions of bail (if any).

(4D)A custody officer may not appoint a time for a person’s attendance under subsection (4A) which is after the end of the applicable bail period in relation to the person.

(4E)Subsection (4D) is subject to section 47ZL.]

F345(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(6)Where a person [F346who has been granted bail [F347under this Part] and either has attended at the police station in accordance with the grant of bail or has been arrested under section 46A above is detained at a police station], any time during which he was in police detention prior to being granted bail shall be included as part of any period which falls to be calculated under this Part of this Act [F348and any time during which he was on bail shall not be so included].

[F349(6A)Where a person has been arrested under section 46A above (other than in a case within subsection (1ZA) or (1ZB) of that section) the period of 3 hours beginning with the time at which the person arrives at a police station following the arrest is not to be included as part of any period of police detention which falls to be calculated in relation to the person under this Part of this Act.]

(7)Where a person who was released on bail [F350under this Part] subject to a duty to attend at a police station is re-arrested, the provisions of this Part of this Act shall apply to him as they apply to a person arrested for the first time [F351; but this subsection does not apply to a person who is arrested under section 46A above or has attended a police station in accordance with the grant of bail (and who accordingly is deemed by section 34(7) above to have been arrested for an offence) F352[or to a person to whom section 46ZA(4) or (5) applies.]]

(8)In the M29Magistrates’ Court Act 1980—

(a)the following section shall be substituted for section 43—

“43 Bail on arrest

(1)Where a person has been granted bail under the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 subject to a duty to appear before a magistrates’ court, the court before which he is to appear may appoint a later time as the time at which he is to appear and may enlarge the recognizances of any sureties for him at that time.

(2)The recognizance of any surety for any person granted bail subject to a duty to attend at a police station may be enforced as if it were conditioned for his appearance before a magistrates’ court for the petty sessions area in which the police station named in the recognizance is situated.”; and

(b)the following subsection shall be substituted for section 117(3)—

“(3)Where a warrant has been endorsed for bail under subsection (1) above—

(a)where the person arrested is to be released on bail on his entering into a recognizance without sureties, it shall not be necessary to take him to a police station, but if he is so taken, he shall be released from custody on his entering into the recognizance; and

(b)where he is to be released on his entering into a recognizance with sureties, he shall be taken to a police station on his arrest, and the custody officer there shall (subject to his approving any surety tendered in compliance with the endorsement) release him from custody as directed in the endorsement.”.

Textual Amendments

F329Words in s. 47(1) substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 27(1)(a); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F330S. 47(1A) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 27(1)(b); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F331Words in s. 47(1A) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 61(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 13

F333Word in s. 47(1B) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 61(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 13

F334Words in s. 47(1B) substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 11; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F335Word in s. 47(1C) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 61(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 13

F336Words in s. 47(1C) substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 10, 53, Sch. 6 para. 11; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(i) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F337Words in s. 47(2) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 65(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 17 (with reg. 5)

F338Words in s. 47(3) substituted (30.9.1998 for the purposes specified in S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(2), Sch. 2 and otherwise 1.11.1999) by 1998 c. 37, s. 46(1); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(2), Sch. 2 and S.I. 1999/2976, art. 2

F339S. 47(3)(a)-(c) substituted for s. 47(3)(a) (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(5)(a), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

F341Words in s. 47(3)(c) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 64(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 16 (with reg. 5)

F342S. 47(3A) inserted (30.9.1998 for the purposes specified in S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(2), Sch. 2 and otherwise 1.11.1999) by 1998 c. 37, s. 46(2); S.I. 1998/2327, art. 3(2), Sch. 2; S.I. 1999/2976, art. 2.

F343Words in s. 47(3A)(b) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 283; S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

F344S. 47(4A)-(4E) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 64(7), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 16 (with reg. 5)

F345S. 47(5) repealed (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, ss. 29(4)(c)(5), 168(3), Sch. 11; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix B

F346Words in s. 47(6) substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(4)(d)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F348Words in s. 47(6) inserted (retrospectively) by Police (Detention and Bail) Act 2011 (c. 9), s. 1(1)(3)

F351Words in s. 47(7) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 29(4)(e)(5); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F352Words in s. 47(7) inserted (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(5)(b), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C381S. 47 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(5)(c) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

C382S. 47(3) excluded (4.4.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 88(1)(b), 336; S.I. 2005/950, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 5 (subject to art. 2(2), Sch. 2) (as amended by S.I. 2005/2122, art. 2)

Marginal Citations

[F35347ZZADuty to seek views of alleged victims on conditions of pre-charge bailE+W

(1)Subsections (2) to (5) apply if—

(a)a person has been arrested for an offence, and

(b)a custody officer proposes to release the person on bail under this Part (except section 37C(2)(b) or 37CA(2)(b)).

(2)If it is reasonably practicable to do so, the investigating officer must seek the views of the alleged victim (if any) of the offence on—

(a)whether relevant conditions should be imposed on the person’s bail, and

(b)if so, what relevant conditions should be imposed.

(3)In this section “relevant condition”, in relation to an offence and an alleged victim of that offence, means a condition that relates to the safeguarding of the alleged victim.

(4)The investigating officer must inform the custody officer of any views obtained under subsection (2).

(5)If the person is granted bail subject to relevant conditions, the investigating officer must, if it is reasonably practicable to do so, notify the alleged victim of the offence of those conditions.

(6)If the alleged victim of the offence appears to the investigating officer to be vulnerable, subsections (2) and (5) apply as if references to the alleged victim of the offence were to a person appearing to the officer to represent the alleged victim.

(7)Subsections (8) to (11) apply if—

(a)a person has been arrested for an offence,

(b)the person has been released on bail under this Part subject to conditions, and

(c)the person requests a custody officer to vary the conditions under section 3A(8) of the Bail Act 1976.

(8)If it is reasonably practicable to do so, the investigating officer must seek the views of the alleged victim (if any) of the offence on—

(a)whether any of the conditions that are relevant conditions should be varied, and

(b)if so, what variations should be made to those conditions.

(9)The investigating officer must inform the custody officer of any views obtained under subsection (8).

(10)If any of the conditions which are relevant conditions are varied, the investigating officer must, if it is reasonably practicable to do so, notify the alleged victim of the variations.

(11)If the alleged victim of the offence appears to the investigating officer to be vulnerable, subsections (8) and (10) apply as if references to the alleged victim of the offence were to a person appearing to the officer to represent the alleged victim.

(12)In this section “investigating officer”, in relation to an offence, means the constable or other person in charge of the investigation of the offence.

(13)For the purposes of this section a person (“P”) is an alleged victim of an offence if—

(a)an allegation has been made to a constable or other person involved in the investigation of the offence that P has suffered physical, mental or emotional harm, or economic loss, which was directly caused by the offence, and

(b)P is an individual.

(14)For the purposes of this section an alleged victim of an offence is vulnerable if the alleged victim—

(a)was aged under 18 at the time of the offence, or

(b)may have difficulty understanding a communication from an investigating officer under this section, or communicating effectively in response to it, by reason of—

(i)a physical disability or disorder,

(ii)a mental disorder within the meaning of the Mental Health Act 1983, or

(iii)a significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning.]

Textual Amendments

[F35447ZALimits on period of bail without chargeE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to the power conferred on a custody officer, when releasing a person on bail under this Part, to appoint a time for the person to attend at a police station in accordance with section 47(3)(c).

(2)The power must be exercised so as to appoint a time on the day on which the applicable bail period in relation to the person ends, unless subsection (3) or (4) applies.

(3)This subsection applies where—

(a)at the time of the exercise of the power the person is on bail under this Part in relation to one or more offences other than the relevant offence, and

(b)the custody officer believes that it is appropriate to align the person’s attendance in relation to the relevant offence with the person’s attendance in relation to the one or more other offences.

(4)This subsection applies where the custody officer believes that a decision as to whether to charge the person with the relevant offence would be made before the end of the applicable bail period in relation to the person.

(5)Where subsection (3) or (4) applies, the power may be exercised so as to appoint a time on a day falling before the end of the applicable bail period in relation to the person.

(6)This section is subject to section 47ZL.

(7)In this section references to attendance are to attendance at a police station in accordance with section 47(3)(c).

(8)In this Part the “relevant offence”, in relation to a person, means the offence in respect of which the power mentioned in subsection (1) is exercised in relation to the person.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZBApplicable bail period: initial limitE+W

(1)In this Part the “applicable bail period”, in relation to a person, means—

(a)in an [F355FCA case, HMRC case, NCA case or SFO case], the period of [F3566 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date, or

(b)[F357in any other case], the period of [F3583 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(2)The applicable bail period in relation to a person may be extended under sections 47ZD to 47ZG or treated as extended under section 47ZJ(3).

(3)Subsection (1) and sections 47ZD to 47ZG are subject to sections 47ZL and 47ZM.

(4)For the purposes of this Part—

(a)a person’s bail start date is the day after the day on which the person was arrested for the relevant offence,

(b)an “FCA case” is a case in which—

(i)the relevant offence in relation to the person is being investigated by the Financial Conduct Authority, and

(ii)[F359a member of staff of that Authority who is of the description designated for the purposes of this sub-paragraph by the Chief Executive of that Authority] confirms that sub-paragraph (i) applies,

[F360(ba)an “HMRC case” is a case in which—

(i)the relevant offence in relation to the person is being investigated by an officer of Revenue and Customs, and

(ii)an officer of Revenue and Customs confirms that sub-paragraph (i) applies,

(bb)an “NCA case” is a case in which—

(i)the relevant offence in relation to the person is being investigated by the National Crime Agency, and

(ii)a National Crime Agency officer confirms that sub-paragraph (i) applies,]

(c)an “SFO case” is a case in which—

(i)the relevant offence in relation to the person is being investigated by the Director of the Serious Fraud Office, and

(ii)[F361a member of the Serious Fraud Office] confirms that sub-paragraph (i) applies, F362...

F362(d). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZCApplicable bail period: conditions A to D in sections 47ZD to 47ZGE+W

(1)This section applies for the purposes of sections 47ZD to 47ZG.

(2)Condition A is that the decision-maker has reasonable grounds for suspecting the person in question to be guilty of the relevant offence.

(3)Condition B is that the decision-maker has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)in a case where the person in question is or is to be released on bail under [F363section 37(7)(b)] or 37CA(2)(b), that further time is needed for making a decision as to whether to charge the person with the relevant offence, or

(b)otherwise, that further investigation is needed of any matter in connection with the relevant offence.

(4)Condition C is that the decision-maker has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)in a case where the person in question is or is to be released on bail under [F364section 37(7)(b)] or 37CA(2)(b), that the decision as to whether to charge the person with the relevant offence is being made diligently and expeditiously, or

(b)otherwise, that the investigation is being conducted diligently and expeditiously.

(5)Condition D is that the decision-maker has reasonable grounds for believing that the release on bail of the person in question is necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances (having regard, in particular, to any conditions of bail which are, or are to be, imposed).

(6)In this section “decision-maker” means—

(a)in relation to a condition which falls to be considered by virtue of section 47ZD, the [F365relevant officer] in question;

[F366(aa)in relation to a condition which falls to be considered by virtue of section 47ZDA, the senior officer in question;

(ab)in relation to a condition which falls to be considered by virtue of section 47ZDB, the appropriate decision-maker in question,]

(b)in relation to a condition which falls to be considered by virtue of section 47ZE, the [F367qualifying police officer] in question;

(c)in relation to a condition which falls to be considered by virtue of section 47ZF or 47ZG, the court in question.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZDApplicable bail period: extension of initial limit in standard casesE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to a person if—

(a)the applicable bail period in relation to the person is the period mentioned in section 47ZB(1)(b),

(b)that period has not ended, and

(c)a [F368relevant officer] is satisfied that conditions A to D are met in relation to the person.

(2)The [F369relevant officer] may authorise the applicable bail period in relation to the person to be extended so that it ends at the end of the period of [F3706 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(3)Before determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the [F371relevant officer] must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed that a determination is to be made.

(4)In determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the [F371relevant officer] must consider any representations made by the person or the person’s legal representative.

(5)The [F371relevant officer] must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed whether an authorisation under subsection (2) has been given in relation to the person.

[F372(6)For the purposes of this Part “relevant officer” means a police officer of the rank of inspector or above.]

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

[F37347ZDAApplicable bail period: further extension of limit in standard casesE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to a person if—

(a)a relevant officer has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under section 47ZD,

(b)that period has not ended, and

(c)a senior officer is satisfied that conditions A to D are met in relation to the person.

(2)The senior officer may authorise the applicable bail period in relation to the person to be extended so that it ends at the end of the period of 9 months beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(3)Before determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the senior officer must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed that a determination is to be made.

(4)In determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the senior officer must consider any representations made by the person or the person’s legal representative.

(5)The senior officer must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed whether an authorisation under subsection (2) has been given in relation to the person.

(6)For the purposes of this Part “senior officer” means a police officer of the rank of superintendent or above.]

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

[F37347ZDBApplicable bail period: extension of limit in non-standard casesE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to a person if—

(a)the applicable bail period in relation to a person is the period mentioned in section 47ZB(1)(a),

(b)that period has not ended, and

(c)an appropriate decision-maker is satisfied that conditions A to D are met in relation to the person.

(2)The appropriate decision-maker may authorise the applicable bail period in relation to the person to be extended so that it ends at the end of the period of 12 months beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(3)Before determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the appropriate decision-maker must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed that a determination is to be made.

(4)In determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (2) in relation to a person, the appropriate decision-maker must consider any representations made by the person or the person’s legal representative.

(5)The appropriate decision-maker must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed whether an authorisation under subsection (2) has been given in relation to the person.

(6)For the purposes of this Part “appropriate decision-maker” means—

(a)in an FCA case, a member of staff of the Financial Conduct Authority who is of the description designated for the purposes of this section by the Chief Executive of that Authority,

(b)in an HMRC case, an officer of Revenue and Customs of a grade that is equivalent to the rank of superintendent or above,

(c)in an NCA case, a National Crime Agency officer of a grade that is equivalent to the rank of superintendent or above, and

(d)in an SFO case, a member of the Serious Fraud Office who is of the Senior Civil Service.]

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZEApplicable bail period: extension of limit in designated casesE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to a person if [F374a senior officer has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under section 47ZDA.]

(2)[F375The Director of Public Prosecutions] may designate the person’s case as being an exceptionally complex case (a “designated case”).

(3)If [F376a qualifying police officer] is satisfied that conditions A to D are met in relation to the person in a designated case, [F377the officer] may authorise the applicable bail period in relation to the person to be extended so that it ends at the end of the period of [F37812 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date.

F379(4). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)Before determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (3) in relation to a person—

(a)the [F380qualifying police officer] must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed that a determination is to be made, and

[F381(b)the qualifying police officer must consult the Director of Public Prosecutions.]

(6)In determining whether to give an authorisation under subsection (3) in relation to a person, the [F382qualifying police officer] must consider any representations made by the person or the person’s legal representative.

(7)The [F383qualifying police officer] must arrange for the person or the person’s legal representative to be informed whether an authorisation under subsection (3) has been given in relation to the person.

(8)Any designation under subsection (2) must be made, and any authorisation under subsection (3) must be given, before the applicable bail period in relation to the person has ended.

(9)In this section—

  • “qualifying police officer” means a police officer of the rank of commander or assistant chief constable or above, F384...

  • F384...

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZFApplicable bail period: first extension of limit by courtE+W

(1)This section applies in relation to a person if—

F385(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)a senior officer has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under [F386section 47ZDA],

[F387(ba)an appropriate decision-maker has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under section 47ZDB,] or

(c)[F388a qualifying police officer] has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under section 47ZE.

(2)Before the applicable bail period in relation to the person ends a qualifying applicant may apply to a magistrates’ court for it to authorise an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under this section.

(3)If the court is satisfied that—

(a)conditions B to D are met in relation to the person, and

(b)the case does not fall within subsection (7),

it may authorise the applicable bail period to be extended as specified in subsection (4).

(4)The applicable bail period is to end—

(a)in a case falling within [F389subsection (1)(b)], at the end of the period of [F39012 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date;

(b)in a case falling within [F391subsection (1)(ba) or (c)], at the end of the period of [F39218 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(5)If the court is satisfied that—

(a)conditions B to D are met in relation to the person, and

(b)the case falls within subsection (7),

it may authorise the applicable bail period to be extended as specified in subsection (6).

(6)The applicable bail period is to end—

(a)in a case falling within [F393subsection (1)(b)], at the end of the period of [F39418 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date;

(b)in a case falling within [F395subsection (1)(ba) or (c)], at the end of the period of [F39624 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date.

(7)A case falls within this subsection if the nature of the decision or further investigations mentioned in condition B means that that decision is unlikely to be made or those investigations completed if the applicable bail period in relation to the person is not extended as specified in subsection (6).

(8)In this section “qualifying applicant” means—

(a)a constable,

(b)a member of staff of the Financial Conduct Authority who is of the description designated for the purposes of this subsection by the Chief Executive of the Authority,

[F397(ba)an officer of Revenue and Customs,

(bb)a National Crime Agency officer,]

(c)a member of the Serious Fraud Office, or

(d)a Crown Prosecutor.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZGApplicable bail period: subsequent extensions of limit by courtE+W

(1)Subsections (2) to (6) apply where a court has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to a person under section 47ZF.

(2)Before the applicable bail period in relation to the person ends a qualifying applicant may apply to a magistrates’ court for it to authorise an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to the person under this section.

(3)If the court is satisfied that—

(a)conditions B to D are met in relation to the person, and

(b)the case does not fall within subsection (8),

it may authorise the applicable bail period to be extended as specified in subsection (4).

(4)The applicable bail period is to end at the end of the period of 3 months beginning with the end of the current applicable bail period in relation to the person.

(5)If the court is satisfied that—

(a)conditions B to D are met in relation to the person, and

(b)the case falls within subsection (8),

it may authorise the applicable bail period to be extended as specified in subsection (6).

(6)The applicable bail period is to end at the end of the period of 6 months beginning with the end of the current applicable bail period in relation to the person.

(7)Where a court has authorised an extension of the applicable bail period in relation to a person under subsection (3) or (5), a qualifying applicant may make further applications under subsection (2) (and subsections (3) to (6) apply accordingly).

(8)A case falls within this subsection if the nature of the decision or further investigations mentioned in condition B means that that decision is unlikely to be made or those investigations completed if the current applicable bail period in relation to the person is not extended as specified in subsection (6).

(9)For the purposes of this section—

(a)references to the current applicable bail period in relation to a person are to the applicable bail period applying to the person when the application under this section is made (subject to section 47ZJ(3)), and

(b)“qualifying applicant” has the same meaning as in section 47ZF.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZHSections 47ZF and 47ZG: withholding sensitive informationE+W

(1)This section applies where a qualifying applicant makes an application to a magistrates’ court under section 47ZF or 47ZG in relation to a person.

(2)The qualifying applicant may apply to the court for it to authorise the specified information to be withheld from the person and any legal representative of the person.

(3)The court may grant an application under subsection (2) only if satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that the specified information is sensitive information.

(4)For the purposes of this section information is sensitive information if its disclosure would have one or more of the following results—

(a)evidence connected with an indictable offence would be interfered with or harmed;

(b)a person would be interfered with or physically injured;

(c)a person suspected of having committed an indictable offence but not yet arrested for the offence would be alerted;

(d)the recovery of property obtained as a result of an indictable offence would be hindered.

(5)In this section “specified information” means the information specified in the application under subsection (2).

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZISections 47ZF to 47ZH: proceedings in magistrates’ courtE+W

(1)An application made to a magistrates’ court under section 47ZF or 47ZG in relation to a person is to be determined by a single justice of the peace on written evidence unless subsection (2) or (3) applies.

(2)This subsection applies if—

(a)the effect of the application would be to extend the applicable bail period in relation to the person so that it ends at or before the end of the period of [F39824 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date, and

(b)a single justice of the peace considers that the interests of justice require an oral hearing.

(3)This subsection applies if—

(a)the effect of the application would be to extend the applicable bail period in relation to the person so that it ends after the end of the period of [F39924 months] beginning with the person’s bail start date, and

(b)the person, or the person who made the application, requests an oral hearing.

(4)If subsection (2) or (3) applies, the application is to be determined by two or more justices of the peace sitting otherwise than in open court.

(5)Where an application under section 47ZF or 47ZG in relation to a person is to be determined as mentioned in subsection (4), the justices may direct that the person and any legal representative of the person be excluded from any part of the hearing.

(6)The justices may give a direction under subsection (5) only if satisfied that there are reasonable grounds for believing that sensitive information would be disclosed at the part of the hearing in question.

(7)An application under section 47ZH is to be determined by a single justice of the peace on written evidence unless the justice determines that the interests of justice require an oral hearing.

(8)If the justice makes a determination under subsection (7)—

(a)the application is to be determined by two or more justices of the peace sitting otherwise than in open court, and

(b)the justices hearing the application must direct that the person to whom the application relates and any legal representative of the person be excluded from the hearing.

(9)In this section “sensitive information” has the meaning given in section 47ZH(4).

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZJSections 47ZF and 47ZG: late applications to magistrates’ courtE+W

(1)This section applies where—

(a)an application under section 47ZF or 47ZG is made to a magistrates’ court before the end of the applicable bail period in relation to a person, but

(b)it is not practicable for the court to determine the application before the end of that period.

(2)The court must determine the application as soon as is practicable.

(3)The applicable bail period in relation to the person is to be treated as extended until the application is determined.

(4)If it appears to the court that it would have been reasonable for the application to have been made in time for it to have been determined by the court before the end of the applicable bail period in relation to the person, it may refuse the application.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZKRulesE+W

Criminal Procedure Rules may make provision in connection with applications under sections 47ZF, 47ZG and 47ZH and the proceedings for determining such applications.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZLApplicable bail period and bail return date: special case of release on bail under section 37(7)(a) or 37C(2)(b)E+W

(1)This section applies where a person is released on bail under section 37(7)(a) or 37C(2)(b).

(2)The running of the applicable bail period in relation to the person—

(a)does not begin (in the case of a first release on bail), or

(b)is suspended (in any other case),

(subject to subsection (6)).

(3)Accordingly section 47ZA does not apply to the exercise of the power mentioned in section 47ZA(1) when releasing the person on bail.

(4)Subsections (5) and (6) apply if a DPP request is made in relation to the person.

(5)A custody officer must exercise the power mentioned in section 47(4A) to appoint a different time for the person to attend at the police station (and section 47(4B) to (4D) applies accordingly).

(6)The applicable bail period in relation to the person—

(a)begins to run on the day on which the DPP request is made (in the case of a first release on bail), or

(b)resumes running on that day (in any other case).

(7)Subsection (8) applies where—

(a)a DPP request has been made in relation to the person, and

(b)the applicable bail period in relation to the person would end before the end of the period of 7 days beginning with the day on which the DPP request was made.

(8)The running of the applicable bail period in relation to the person is suspended for the number of days necessary to secure that the applicable bail period ends at the end of the period of 7 days beginning with the day on which the DPP request was made.

(9)Subsections (10) and (11) apply if the DPP request made in relation to the person is met.

(10)The running of the applicable bail period in relation to the person is suspended.

(11)Accordingly section 47(4D) does not apply to any exercise of the power under section 47(4A).

(12)For the purposes of this section—

(a)a “DPP request”, in relation to a person, means a request by the Director of Public Prosecutions for the further information specified in the request to be provided before the Director decides under section 37B(2) whether there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with the relevant offence,

(b)a DPP request is met when the further information specified in the request is provided, and

(c)references to the case of a first release on bail are to a case where the person has not been released on bail in relation to the relevant offence under any other provision of this Part or under section 30A.

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

47ZMApplicable bail period: special cases of release on bail under section 30A and periods in hospitalE+W

(1)Subsections (2) and (3) apply where a person was released on bail under section 30A.

(2)The period of [F4003 months] mentioned in section 30B(8) in relation to the person is to be treated as being the period of [F4003 months] mentioned in section 47ZB(1)(b) in relation to the person.

(3)Any reference to the relevant offence, in relation to the person, is to be read as a reference to the offence in respect of which the power in section 30A(1) was exercised.

(4)Subsection (5) applies if, at any time on the day on which the applicable bail period in relation to a person would end, the person is in hospital as an in-patient.

(5)The running of the applicable bail period in relation to the person is to be treated as having been suspended for any day on which the patient was in hospital as an in-patient.]

Textual Amendments

F354Ss. 47ZA-47ZM inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 63, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 15 (with reg. 5)

F40147A Early administrative hearings conducted by justices’ clerks.E+W

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

48 Remands to police detention.E+W

In section 128 of the Magistrates’ Courts Act 1980—

(a)in subsection (7) for the words “the custody of a constable” there shall be substituted the words “detention at a police station”;

(b)after subsection (7) there shall be inserted the following subsection—

“(8)Where a person is committed to detention at a police station under subsection (7) above—

(a)he shall not be kept in such detention unless there is a need for him to be so detained for the purposes of inquiries into other offences;

(b)if kept in such detention, he shall be brought back before the magistrates’ court which committed him as soon as that need ceases;

(c)he shall be treated as a person in police detention to whom the duties under section 39 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (responsibilities in relation to persons detained) relate;

(d)his detention shall be subject to periodic review at the times set out in section 40 of that Act (review of police detention).”.

49 Police detention to count towards custodial sentence.E+W

(1)In subsection (1) of section 67 of the M30Criminal Justice Act 1967 (computation of custodial sentences) for the words from “period”, in the first place where it occurs, to “the offender” there shall be substituted the words “relevant period, but where he”.

(2)The following subsection shall be inserted after that subsection—

“(1A)In subsection (1) above “relevant period” means—

(a)any period during which the offender was in police detention in connection with the offence for which the sentence was passed; or

(b)any period during which he was in custody—

(i)by reason only of having been committed to custody by an order of a court made in connection with any proceedings relating to that sentence or the offence for which it was passed or any proceedings from which those proceedings arose; or

(ii)by reason of his having been so committed and having been concurrently detained otherwise than by order of a court.”.

(3)The following subsections shall be added after subsection (6) of that section—

“(7)A person is in police detention for the purposes of this section—

(a)at any time when he is in police detention for the purposes of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984; and

(b)at any time when he is detained under section 12 of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1984.

(8)No period of police detention shall be taken into account under this section unless it falls after the coming into force of section 49 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.”.

Marginal Citations

50 Records of detention. E+W

(1)Each police force shall keep written records showing on an annual basis—

(a)the number of persons kept in police detention for more than 24 hours and subsequently released without charge;

(b)the number of applications for warrants of further detention and the results of the applications; and

(c)in relation to each warrant of further detention—

(i)the period of further detention authorised by it;

(ii)the period which the person named in it spent in police detention on its authority; and

(iii)whether he was charged or released without charge.

(2)Every annual report—

F402[(a)under section 22 of the Police Act 1996; or]

(b)made by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis,

shall contain information about the matters mentioned in subsection (1) above in respect of the period to which the report relates.

Textual Amendments

F402S. 50(2)(a) substituted (22.8.1996) by 1996 c. 16, ss. 103, 104(1) Sch. 7 Pt. II para.35

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C383Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

C384S. 50 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3).

[F40350AInterpretation of references to pre-conditions for bailE+W

[F404(1)]For the purposes of this Part the following are the pre-conditions for bail in relation to the release of a person by a custody officer—

(a)that the custody officer is satisfied that releasing the person on bail is necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances (having regard, in particular, to any conditions of bail which would be imposed), and

[F405(b)that the custody officer has considered any representations made by the person or the person’s legal representative.]

[F406(2)In determining whether releasing the person on bail is necessary and proportionate in all the circumstances, the custody officer must have regard in particular to—

(a)the need to secure that the person surrenders to custody,

(b)the need to prevent offending by the person,

(c)the need to safeguard victims of crime and witnesses, taking into account any vulnerabilities of any alleged victim of, or alleged witness to, the offence for which the person was arrested where these vulnerabilities have been identified by the custody officer,

(d)the need to safeguard the person, taking into account any vulnerabilities of the person where these vulnerabilities have been identified by the custody officer, and

(e)the need to manage risks to the public.]]

Textual Amendments

F403S. 50A inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 58, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12 (with reg. 5)

[F40750BGuidance from the College of Policing on pre-charge bailE+W

(1)The College of Policing may, with the approval of the Secretary of State, issue guidance on bail that is granted to a person under Part 3 or this Part (“pre-charge bail”).

(2)Guidance on pre-charge bail may in particular cover—

(a)the exercise of powers to release a person on pre-charge bail;

(b)the exercise of powers to impose or vary conditions of pre-charge bail;

(c)the exercise of powers to arrest a person—

(i)for failing to answer pre-charge bail, or

(ii)for breaching any conditions of pre-charge bail;

(d)the exercise of powers to extend the period of pre-charge bail;

(e)the duty to seek the views of alleged victims about conditions of pre-charge bail.

(3)The College of Policing may, with the approval of the Secretary of State, from time to time revise the whole or any part of its guidance on pre-charge bail.

(4)Before issuing or revising guidance on pre-charge bail, the College of Policing must consult—

(a)the National Police Chiefs’ Council,

(b)such persons as appear to the College to represent the views of local policing bodies, and

(c)such other persons as the College thinks fit.

(5)The Secretary of State must lay before Parliament any guidance on pre-charge bail issued by the College of Policing, and any revision of such guidance.

(6)The Secretary of State is not required by subsection (5) to lay before Parliament, or may exclude from what is laid, anything the publication of which, in the opinion of the Secretary of State—

(a)could prejudice the prevention or detection of crime or the apprehension or prosecution of offenders, or

(b)could jeopardise the safety of any person.

(7)A person who exercises functions relating to pre-charge bail must have regard to the guidance.

(8)But subsection (7) does not apply to—

(a)a member of the Serious Fraud Office,

(b)a member of staff of the Financial Conduct Authority,

(c)an officer of Revenue and Customs, or

(d)a National Crime Agency officer.

(9)A failure on the part of a person to whom subsection (7) applies to comply with the guidance does not of itself render the person liable to any criminal or civil proceedings.

(10)But guidance on pre-charge bail is admissible in evidence in criminal or civil proceedings and a court may take into account a failure to comply with it in determining a question in the proceedings.]

Textual Amendments

51 Savings.E+W

Nothing in this Part of this Act shall affect—

(a)the powers conferred on immigration officers by section 4 of and Schedule 2 to the M31Immigration Act 1971 (administrative provisions as to control on entry etc.);

[F408(b)the powers conferred by virtue of section 41 [F409or 43B] of, or Schedule 7 to, the Terrorism Act 2000 (powers of arrest and detention);] F410...

[F411(ba)the powers conferred by virtue of Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 (powers of detention);]

[F412(bb)the powers conferred by virtue of section 27 of and Schedule 6 to the National Security Act 2023;]

(c)F413. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(d)any right of a person in police detention to apply for a writ of habeas corpus or other prerogative remedy.

Textual Amendments

F408S. 51(b) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125(1), Sch. 15 para. 5(4); S.I.2001/421, art. 2

F413S. 51(c) repealed (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise prosp.) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 17; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C388Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

Marginal Citations

F41452. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

Part VE+W Questioning and Treatment of Persons by Police

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

53 Abolition of certain powers of constables to search persons.E+W

(1)Subject to subsection (2) below, there shall cease to have effect any Act (including a local Act) passed before this Act in so far as it authorises—

(a)any search by a constable of a person in police detention at a police station; or

(b)an intimate search of a person by a constable;

and any rule of common law which authorises a search such as is mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) above is abolished.

F415(2). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

54 Searches of detained persons.E+W

(1)F416The custody officer at a police station shall ascertain . . . everything which a person has with him when he is—

(a)brought to the station after being arrested elsewhere or after being committed to custody by an order of sentence of a court; or

F417[F418(b)arrested at the station or detained there [F419, as a person falling within section 34(7), under section 37 above [F420or as a person to whom section 46ZA(4) or (5) applies]].]

[F421(2)The custody officer may record or cause to be recorded all or any of the things which he ascertains under subsection (1).

(2A)In the case of an arrested person, any such record may be made as part of his custody record.]

(3)Subject to subsection (4) below, a custody officer may seize and retain any such thing or cause any such thing to be seized and retained.

(4)Clothes and personal effects may only be seized if the custody officer—

(a)believes that the person from whom they are seized may use them—

(i)to cause physical injury to himself or any other person;

(ii)to damage property;

(iii)to interfere with evidence; or

(iv)to assist him to escape; or

(b)has reasonable grounds for believing that they may be evidence relating to an offence.

(5)Where anything is seized, the person from whom it is seized shall be told the reason for the seizure unless he is—

(a)violent or likely to become violent; or

(b)incapable of understanding what is said to him.

(6)Subject to subsection (7) below, a person may be searched if the custody officer considers it necessary to enable him to carry out his duty under subsection (1) above and to the extent that the custody officer considers necessary for that purpose.

[F422(6A)A person who is in custody at a police station or is in police detention otherwise than at a police station may at any time be searched in order to ascertain whether he has with him anything which he could use for any of the purposes specified in subsection (4)(a) above.

(6B)Subject to subsection (6C) below, a constable may seize and retain, or cause to be seized and retained, anything found on such a search.

(6C)A constable may only seize clothes and personal effects in the circumstances specified in subsection (4) above.]

(7)An intimate search may not be conducted under this section.

(8)A search under this section shall be carried out by a constable.

(9)The constable carrying out a search shall be of the same sex as the person searched.

Textual Amendments

F417Words in s. 54(1)(b) inserted (1.4.2007 for specified purposes, 14.11.2008 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(6), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (with art. 6); S.I. 2008/2785, art. 2; S.I. 2011/2144, art. 2(1)(b); S.I. 2012/2373, art. 2(b)

F419Words in s. 54(1)(b) substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para.55; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A

F420Words in s. 54(1)(b) inserted (1.4.2007 for certain purposes, otherwise prosp.) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 46(6), 53; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(n) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F421S. 54(2)(2A) substituted (20.1.2004) for s. 54(2) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 8(2), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C391Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

S. 54(1)(3)(4)(6)(6A)(8)(9) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1),Sch.

S. 54(5)(7) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1),Sch.

C392S. 54 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 1(2)(b), 3(2)(3); s. 54 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3, 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(b), 5

S. 54 extended (2.12.2002) by 2002 c. 30, s. 38, Sch. 4 Pt. 3 para. 26(1); S.I. 2002/2750, (art. 2(a)(ii)(d))

C393S. 54 applied (with modifications) (1.1.2004) by The Extradition Act 2003 (Police Powers) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3106), art. 2

S. 54 applied (with modifications) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 24B(6) (as inserted (29.6.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 18(1), 53 (with s. 18(2)); S.I. 2007/1614, art. 2(e))

C394S. 54: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 171(3)(a), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

[F42354A Searches and examination to ascertain identityE+W

(1)If an officer of at least the rank of inspector authorises it, a person who is detained in a police station may be searched or examined, or both—

(a)for the purpose of ascertaining whether he has any mark that would tend to identify him as a person involved in the commission of an offence; or

(b)for the purpose of facilitating the ascertainment of his identity.

(2)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (1) for the purpose mentioned in paragraph (a) of that subsection if—

(a)the appropriate consent to a search or examination that would reveal whether the mark in question exists has been withheld; or

(b)it is not practicable to obtain such consent.

(3)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (1) in a case in which subsection (2) does not apply if—

(a)the person in question has refused to identify himself; or

(b)the officer has reasonable grounds for suspecting that that person is not who he claims to be.

(4)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (1) orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

(5)Any identifying mark found on a search or examination under this section may be photographed—

(a)with the appropriate consent; or

(b)if the appropriate consent is withheld or it is not practicable to obtain it, without it.

(6)Where a search or examination may be carried out under this section, or a photograph may be taken under this section, the only persons entitled to carry out the search or examination, or to take the photograph, are[F424 constables]

(7)A person may not under this section carry out a search or examination of a person of the opposite sex or take a photograph of any part of the body of a person of the opposite sex.

(8)An intimate search may not be carried out under this section.

(9)A photograph taken under this section—

(a)may be used by, or disclosed to, any person for any purpose related to the prevention or detection of crime, the investigation of an offence or the conduct of a prosecution; and

(b)after being so used or disclosed, may be retained but may not be used or disclosed except for a purpose so related.

(10)In subsection —

(a)the reference to crime includes a reference to any conduct which—

(i)constitutes one or more criminal offences (whether under the law of a part of the United Kingdom or of a country or territory outside the United Kingdom); or

(ii)is, or corresponds to, any conduct which, if it all took place in any one part of the United Kingdom, would constitute one or more criminal offences;

and

(b)the references to an investigation and to a prosecution include references, respectively, to any investigation outside the United Kingdom of any crime or suspected crime and to a prosecution brought in respect of any crime in a country or territory outside the United Kingdom.

(11)In this section—

(a)references to ascertaining a person’s identity include references to showing that he is not a particular person; and

(b)references to taking a photograph include references to using any process by means of which a visual image may be produced, and references to photographing a person shall be construed accordingly.

(12)In this section “mark” includes features and injuries; and a mark is an identifying mark for the purposes of this section if its existence in any person’s case facilitates the ascertainment of his identity or his identification as a person involved in the commission of an offence.

[F425(13)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested under an extradition arrest power.]]

Textual Amendments

F423S. 54A inserted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c. 24, s. 90(1)

F424Words in s. 54A(6) substituted (2.12.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c.30), s. 107, Sch. 7 {para. 9(2)}; S.I. 2002/2750, art. 2(b)(ii)

F425S. 54A(13) inserted (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 169(2), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

F426[54BSearches of persons answering to live link bailE+W

(1)A constable may search at any time—

(a)any person who is at a police station to answer to live link bail; and

(b)any article in the possession of such a person.

(2)If the constable reasonably believes a thing in the possession of the person ought to be seized on any of the grounds mentioned in subsection (3), the constable may seize and retain it or cause it to be seized and retained.

(3)The grounds are that the thing—

(a)may jeopardise the maintenance of order in the police station;

(b)may put the safety of any person in the police station at risk; or

(c)may be evidence of, or in relation to, an offence.

(4)The constable may record or cause to be recorded all or any of the things seized and retained pursuant to subsection (2).

(5)An intimate search may not be carried out under this section.

(6)The constable carrying out a search under subsection (1) must be of the same sex as the person being searched.

(7)In this section “live link bail” means bail granted under Part 4 of this Act subject to the duty mentioned in section 47(3)(b).]

Textual Amendments

F426Ss. 54B, 54C inserted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 108(1), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(c); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(c)

F426[54CPower to retain articles seizedE+W

(1)Except as provided by subsections (2) and (3), a constable may retain a thing seized under section 54B until the time when the person from whom it was seized leaves the police station.

(2)A constable may retain a thing seized under section 54B in order to establish its lawful owner, where there are reasonable grounds for believing that it has been obtained in consequence of the commission of an offence.

(3)If a thing seized under section 54B may be evidence of, or in relation to, an offence, a constable may retain it—

(a)for use as evidence at a trial for an offence; or

(b)for forensic examination or for investigation in connection with an offence.

(4)Nothing may be retained for either of the purposes mentioned in subsection (3) if a photograph or copy would be sufficient for that purpose.

(5)Nothing in this section affects any power of a court to make an order under section 1 of the Police (Property) Act 1897.

(6)The references in this section to anything seized under section 54B include anything seized by a person to whom paragraph 27A of Schedule 4 to the Police Reform Act 2002 applies.]

Textual Amendments

F426Ss. 54B, 54C inserted (14.12.2009 for specified purposes, 3.10.2011 for specified purposes, 8.10.2012 in so far as not already in force) by Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25), ss. 108(1), 182(5) (with s. 180); S.I. 2009/3253, art. 3(1)(c); S.I. 2011/2148, art. 2; S.I. 2012/2374, art. 3(c)

55Intimate searchesE+W

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, if an officer of at least the rank of [F427inspector] has reasonable grounds for believing—

(a)that a person who has been arrested and is in police detention may have concealed on him anything which—

(i)he could use to cause physical injury to himself or others; and

(ii)he might so use while he is in police detention or in the custody of a court; or

(b)that such a person—

(i)may have a Class A drug concealed on him; and

(ii)was in possession of it with the appropriate criminal intent before his arrest,

he may authorise [F428an intimate search] of that person.

(2)An officer may not authorise an intimate search of a person for anything unless he has reasonable grounds for believing that it cannot be found without his being intimately searched.

(3)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (1) above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

[F429(3A)A drug offence search shall not be carried out unless the appropriate consent has been given in writing.

(3B)Where it is proposed that a drug offence search be carried out, an appropriate officer shall inform the person who is to be subject to it—

(a)of the giving of the authorisation for it; and

(b)of the grounds for giving the authorisation.]

(4)An intimate search which is only a drug offence search shall be by way of examination by a suitably qualified person.

(5)Except as provided by subsection (4) above, an intimate search shall be by way of examination by a suitably qualified person unless an officer of at least the rank of [F427inspector] considers that this is not practicable.

(6)An intimate search which is not carried out as mentioned in subsection (5) above shall be carried out by a constable.

(7)A constable may not carry out an intimate search of a person of the opposite sex.

(8)No intimate search may be carried out except—

(a)at a police station;

(b)at a hospital;

(c)at a registered medical practitioner’s surgery; or

(d)at some other place used for medical purposes.

(9)An intimate search which is only a drug offence search may not be carried out at a police station.

(10)If an intimate search of a person is carried out, the custody record relating to him shall state—

(a)which parts of his body were searched; and

(b)why they were searched.

[F430(10A)If the intimate search is a drug offence search, the custody record relating to that person shall also state—

(a)the authorisation by virtue of which the search was carried out;

(b)the grounds for giving the authorisation; and

(c)the fact that the appropriate consent was given.]

(11)The information required to be recorded by [F431subsections (10) and (10A)] above shall be recorded as soon as practicable after the completion of the search.

(12)The custody officer at a police station may seize and retain anything which is found on an intimate search of a person, or cause any such thing to be seized and retained—

(a)if he believes that the person from whom it is seized may use it—

(i)to cause physical injury to himself or any other person;

(ii)to damage property;

(iii)to interfere with evidence; or

(iv)to assist him to escape; or

(b)if he has reasonable grounds for believing that it may be evidence relating to an offence.

(13)Where anything is seized under this section, the person from whom it is seized shall be told the reason for the seizure unless he is—

(a)violent or likely to become violent; or

(b)incapable of understanding what is said to him.

[F432(13A)Where the appropriate consent to a drug offence search of any person was refused without good cause, in any proceedings against that person for an offence—

(a)the court, in determining whether there is a case to answer;

(b)a judge, in deciding whether to grant an application made by the accused under paragraph 2 of Schedule 3 to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (applications for dismissal); and

(c)the court or jury, in determining whether that person is guilty of the offence charged,

may draw such inferences from the refusal as appear proper.]

(14)Every annual report—

[F433(a)under section 22 of the M32Police Act 1996; or]

(b)made by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis,

shall contain information about searches under this section which have been carried out in the area to which the report relates during the period to which it relates.

(14A)F434. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(15)The information about such searches shall include—

(a)the total number of searches;

(b)the number of searches conducted by way of examination by a suitably qualified person;

(c)the number of searches not so conducted but conducted in the presence of such a person; and

(d)the result of the searches carried out.

(16)The information shall also include, as separate items—

(a)the total number of drug offence searches; and

(b)the result of those searches.

(17)In this section—

  • “the appropriate criminal intent” means an intent to commit an offence under—

(a)section 5(3) of the M33Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 (possession of controlled drug with intent to supply to another); or

(b)section 68(2) of the M34Customs and Excise Management Act 1979 (exportation etc. with intent to evade a prohibition or restriction);

  • [F435“appropriate officer” means—

    (a)

    a constable,

    (b)

    F436...F437. . .

    (c)

    F437. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

  • “Class A drug” has the meaning assigned to it by section 2(1)(b) of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971;

  • “drug offence search” means an intimate search for a Class A drug which an officer has authorised by virtue of subsection (1)(b) above; and

  • “suitably qualified person” means—

(a)a registered medical practitioner; or

(b)a registered nurse.

Textual Amendments

F427Words in s. 55(1)(5) inserted (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 79, 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(g)

F429S. 55(3A)(3B) inserted (1.1.2006) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 3(2), 24; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 3(b)

F430S. 55(10A) inserted (1.1.2006) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 3(3), 24; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 3(b)

F431Words in s. 55(11) substituted (1.1.2006) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 3(4), 24; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 3(b)

F432S. 55(13A) inserted (1.1.2006) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 3(5), 24; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 3(b)

F433S. 55(14)(a) substituted (22.8.1996) by 1996 c. 16, ss. 103(1), 104(1), Sch. 7 Pt. II para. 36

F435S. 55(17): definition of “appropriate officer” inserted (1.1.2006) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 3(6), 24; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 3(b)

F436Words in s. 55(17) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 15.12.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 12 para. 7(2); S.I. 2017/1139, reg. 2(k) (as amended by S.I. 2017/1162, reg. 2)

F437Words in s. 55(17) definition of “appropriate officer” repealed (12.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 112(1)(2), 116(6), Sch. 7 para. 123(5), Sch. 8 Pt. 13

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C403Ss. 8, 9, 15, 16, 17(1)(b(2) (4), 18–20, 21, 22(1)–(4), 28, 29, 30(1)–(4)(a)(5)–(11), 31, 32(1)–(9), 34(1)–(5), 35, 36, 37, 39, 40–44, 50, 51(d), 52, 54, 55, 64(1)–(4)(5)(6), Sch. 1 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

S. 55(1)-(3)(5)(6)-(10)(12)(17) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 55(4)(11)(13) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

C404S. 55 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 1(2)(b), 3(2)(3); s. 55 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3, 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(b), 5

C405S. 55: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 171(3)(b), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

C406S. 55 applied (with modifications) (1.1.2004) by The Extradition Act 2003 (Police Powers) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3106), art. 2

Marginal Citations

M321996 C. 16.

[F43855AX-rays and ultrasound scansE+W

(1)If an officer of at least the rank of inspector has reasonable grounds for believing that a person who has been arrested for an offence and is in police detention—

(a)may have swallowed a Class A drug, and

(b)was in possession of it with the appropriate criminal intent before his arrest,

the officer may authorise that an x-ray is taken of the person or an ultrasound scan is carried out on the person (or both).

(2)An x-ray must not be taken of a person and an ultrasound scan must not be carried out on him unless the appropriate consent has been given in writing.

(3)If it is proposed that an x-ray is taken or an ultrasound scan is carried out, an appropriate officer must inform the person who is to be subject to it—

(a)of the giving of the authorisation for it, and

(b)of the grounds for giving the authorisation.

(4)An x-ray may be taken or an ultrasound scan carried out only by a suitably qualified person and only at—

(a)a hospital,

(b)a registered medical practitioner's surgery, or

(c)some other place used for medical purposes.

(5)The custody record of the person must also state—

(a)the authorisation by virtue of which the x-ray was taken or the ultrasound scan was carried out,

(b)the grounds for giving the authorisation, and

(c)the fact that the appropriate consent was given.

(6)The information required to be recorded by subsection (5) must be recorded as soon as practicable after the x-ray has been taken or ultrasound scan carried out (as the case may be).

(7)Every annual report—

(a)under section 22 of the Police Act 1996, or

(b)made by the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis,

must contain information about x-rays which have been taken and ultrasound scans which have been carried out under this section in the area to which the report relates during the period to which it relates.

(8)The information about such x-rays and ultrasound scans must be presented separately and must include—

(a)the total number of x-rays;

(b)the total number of ultrasound scans;

(c)the results of the x-rays;

(d)the results of the ultrasound scans.

(9)If the appropriate consent to an x-ray or ultrasound scan of any person is refused without good cause, in any proceedings against that person for an offence—

(a)the court, in determining whether there is a case to answer,

(b)a judge, in deciding whether to grant an application made by the accused under paragraph 2 of Schedule 3 to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (applications for dismissal), and

(c)the court or jury, in determining whether that person is guilty of the offence charged,

may draw such inferences from the refusal as appear proper.

(10)In this section “the appropriate criminal intent”, “appropriate officer”, “Class A drug” and “suitably qualified person” have the same meanings as in section 55 above.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

56 Right to have someone informed when arrested.E+W

(1)Where a person has been arrested and is being held in custody in a police station or other premises, he shall be entitled, if he so requests, to have one friend or relative or other person who is known to him or who is likely to take an interest in his welfare told, as soon as is practicable except to the extent that delay is permitted by this section, that he has been arrested and is being detained there.

(2)Delay is only permitted—

(a)in the case of a person who is in police detention for [F439an indictable offence]; and

(b)if an officer of at least the rank of [F440inspector] authorises it.

(3)In any case the person in custody must be permitted to exercise the right conferred by subsection (1) above within 36 hours from the relevant time, as defined in section 41(2) above.

(4)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (2) above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

(5)[F441Subject to sub-section (5A) below] An officer may only authorise delay where he has reasonable grounds for believing that telling the named person of the arrest—

(a)will lead to interference with or harm to evidence connected with [F442an indictable offence] or interference with or physical injury to other persons; or

(b)will lead to the alerting of other persons suspected of having committed such an offence but not yet arrested for it; or

(c)will hinder the recovery of any property obtained as a result of such an offence.

[F443(5A)An officer may also authorise delay where he has reasonable grounds for believing that—

(a)the person detained for [F444the indictable offence] has benefited from his criminal conduct, and

(b)the recovery of the value of the property constituting the benefit will be hindered by telling the named person of the arrest.

(5B)For the purposes of subsection (5A) above the question whether a person has benefited from his criminal conduct is to be decided in accordance with Part 2 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.]

(6)If a delay is authorised—

(a)the detained person shall be told the reason for it; and

(b)the reason shall be noted on his custody record.

(7)The duties imposed by subsection (6) above shall be performed as soon as is practicable.

(8)The rights conferred by this section on a person detained at a police station or other premises are exercisable whenever he is transferred from one place to another; and this section applies to each subsequent occasion on which they are exercisable as it applies to the first such occasion.

(9)There may be no further delay in permitting the exercise of the right conferred by subsection (1) above once the reason for authorising delay ceases to subsist.

[F445(10)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions [F446or under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023,] [F447or detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019].]

Textual Amendments

F443S. 56(5A)(5B) substituted (24.3.2003) for s. 56(5A) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 456, 458(1)(3), Sch. 11 para. 14(2); S.I. 2003/333, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-14) (as amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4)

F445S. 56(10) substituted (19.2.2001) for s. 56(10)(11) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(5) (with s. 129(1)); S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C413S. 56 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2 and Criminal Justice Act 1988 (c. 33, SIF 39:1), s. 99(4)

S. 56(1)-(6)(8) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 56(7)(9) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

C414S. 56 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 1(2)(b), 3(2)(3); s. 56 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(b)(d), 5

C415S. 56 applied by The Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Act 2002 (Juxtaposed Controls) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/2818), art. 5(3) (the amendment coming into force in accordance with art. 1(2) of the amending S.I.)

C416S. 56: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 171(3)(c), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

C417S. 56 applied (with modifications) (1.1.2004) The Extradition Act 2003 (Police Powers) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3106), art. 2

C420S. 56 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(b) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16)

C421S. 56 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(b) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16; S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(f))

C422S. 56(1)-(9) modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3).

57 Additional rights of children and young persons.E+W

The following subsections shall be substituted for section 34(2) of the M35Children and Young Persons Act 1933—

“(2)Where a child or young person is in police detention, such steps as are practicable shall be taken to ascertain the identity of a person responsible for his welfare.

(3)If it is practicable to ascertain the identity of a person responsible for the welfare of the child or young person, that person shall be informed, unless it is not practicable to do so—

(a)that the child or young person has been arrested;

(b)why he has been arrested; and

(c)where he is being detained.

(4)Where information falls to be given under subsection (3) above, it shall be given as soon as it is practicable to do so.

(5)For the purposes of this section the persons who may be responsible for the welfare of a child or young person are—

(a)his parent or guardian; or

(b)any other person who has for the time being assumed responsibility for his welfare.

(6)If it is practicable to give a person responsible for the welfare of the child or young person the information required by subsection (3) above, that person shall be given it as soon as it is practicable to do so.

(7)If it appears that at the time of his arrest a supervision order, as defined in section 11 of the Children and Young Persons Act 1969, is in force in respect of him, the person responsible for his supervision shall also be informed as described in subsection (3) above as soon it is reasonably practicable to do so.

(8)The reference to a parent or guardian in subsection (5) above is—

(a)in the case of a child or young person in the care of a local authority, a reference to that authority; and

(b)in the case of a child or young person in the care of a voluntary organisation in which parental rights and duties with respect to him are vested by virtue of a resolution under section 64(1) of the Child Care Act 1980, a reference to that organisation.

(9)The rights conferred on a child or young person by subsections (2) to (8) above are in addition to his rights under section 56 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.

(10)The reference in subsection (2) above to a child or young person who is in police detention includes a reference to a child or young person who has been detained under the terrorism provisions; and in subsection (3) above “arrest” includes such detention.

(11)In subsection (10) above “the terrorism provisions” has the meaning assigned to it by section 65 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984”.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C424S. 57(1)–(9) expressed to be applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2

Marginal Citations

58 Access to legal advice.E+W

(1)A person arrested and held in custody in a police station or other premises shall be entitled, if he so requests, to consult a solicitor privately at any time.

(2)Subject to subsection (3) below, a request under subsection (1) above and the time at which it was made shall be recorded in the custody record.

(3)Such a request need not be recorded in the custody record of a person who makes it at a time while he is at a court after being charged with an offence.

(4)If a person makes such a request, he must be permitted to consult a solicitor as soon as is practicable except to the extent that delay is permitted by this section.

(5)In any case he must be permitted to consult a solicitor within 36 hours from the relevant time, as defined in section 41(2) above.

(6)Delay in compliance with a request is only permitted—

(a)in the case of a person who is in police detention for [F448an indictable offence]; and

(b)if an officer of at least the rank of superintendent authorises it.

(7)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (6) above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

(8)[F449Subject to sub-section (8A) below] An officer may only authorise delay where he has reasonable grounds for believing that the exercise of the right conferred by subsection (1) above at the time when the person detained desires to exercise it—

(a)will lead to interference with or harm to evidence connected with [F450an indictable offence] or interference with or physical injury to other persons; or

(b)will lead to the alerting of other persons suspected of having committed such an offence but not yet arrested for it; or

(c)will hinder the recovery of any property obtained as a result of such an offence.

[F451(8A)An officer may also authorise delay where he has reasonable grounds for believing that—

(a)the person detained for [F452the indictable offence] has benefited from his criminal conduct, and

(b)the recovery of the value of the property constituting the benefit will be hindered by the exercise of the right conferred by subsection (1) above.

(8B)For the purposes of subsection (8A) above the question whether a person has benefited from his criminal conduct is to be decided in accordance with Part 2 of the Proceeds of Crime Act 2002.]

(9)If delay is authorised—

(a)the detained person shall be told the reasons for it; and

(b)the reason shall be noted on his custody record.

(10)The duties imposed by subsection (9) above shall be performed as soon as is practicable.

(11)There may be no further delay in permitting the exercise of the right conferred by subsection (1) above once the reason for authorising delay ceases to subsist.

[F453(12)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions [F454or under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023,] [F455or detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019].]

Textual Amendments

F451S. 58(8A)(8B) substituted (24.3.2003) for s. 58(8A) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 456, 458(1)(3), Sch. 11 para. 14(3); S.I. 2003/333, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-14) (as amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4)

F453S. 58(12) substituted (19.2.2001) for s. 58(12)-(18) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(6) (with s. 129(1)); S.I. 2000/421, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C427S. 58 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1882, art. 4, 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2 and Criminal Justice Act 1988 (c. 33, SIF 39:1), s. 99(4)

S. 58(1)(2)(4)(6)-(9) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 58(10)(11) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

C428S. 58 extended (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 1(2)(b), 3(2)(3); s. 58 extended by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 3(3), 4 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 paras. 4(b)(d), 5

C429S. 58: power to apply (with modifications) conferred (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 171(3)(d), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

C430S. 58 applied (with modifications) (1.1.2004) The Extradition Act 2003 (Police Powers) Order 2003 (S.I. 2003/3106), art. 2

C433S. 58 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(c) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16)

C434S. 58 applied (with modifications) by 1994 c. 33, s. 137D(2)(c) Sch. 7B Pt. 1 (as inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 1.3.2018 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 116(1)(3), 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 16; S.I. 2018/227, art. 2(f))

C435S. 58(1)-(11) modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(3).

F45659. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F45760[F457Audio recording] of interviews.E+W

(1)It shall be the duty of the Secretary of State—

(a)to issue a code of practice in connection with the[F458audio recording] of interviews of persons suspected of the commission of criminal offences which are held by police officers at police stations; and

(b)to make an order requiring the [F458audio recording] of interviews of persons suspected of the commission of criminal offences, or of such descriptions of criminal offences as may be specified in the order, which are so held, in accordance with the code as it has effect for the time being.

(2)An order under subsection (1) above shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

Textual Amendments

F457Words in s. 60 heading substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 31.3.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 76(2)(b), 183(5)(e)(6)(a)

F458Words in s. 60(1)(a)(b) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 31.3.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 76(2)(a), 183(5)(e)(6)(a)

Commencement Information

I1S. 60 wholly in force; s. 60 not in force at Royal Assent see s. 121; s. 60(1)(a) in force at 1.1.1986 by S.I. 1985/1934; s. 60(1)(b) in force in specified areas and s. 60(2) wholly in force at 29.11.1991 by S.I. 1991/2686, art. 2, Sch.; s. 60(1)(b) in force in the Thames Valley police area at 9.11.1992 by S.I. 1992/2802, art. 2.

[F45960A Visual recording of interviewsE+W

(1)The Secretary of State shall have power—

(a)to issue a code of practice for the visual recording of interviews held by police officers at police stations; and

(b)to make an order requiring the visual recording of interviews so held, and requiring the visual recording to be in accordance with the code for the time being in force under this section.

(2)A requirement imposed by an order under this section may be imposed in relation to such cases or police stations in such areas, or both, as may be specified or described in the order.

(3)An order under subsection (1) above shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(4)In this section—

(a)references to any interview are references to an interview of a person suspected of a criminal offence; and

(b)references to a visual recording include references to a visual recording in which an audio recording is comprised.]

Textual Amendments

F459S. 60A inserted (19.6.2001) by 2001 c. 16, s. 76(1); S.I. 2001/2223, art. 2(a)

[F46060BNotification of decision not to prosecute person interviewedE+W

(1)This section applies where—

(a)a person suspected of the commission of a criminal offence is interviewed by a police officer but is not arrested for the offence, and

(b)the police officer in charge of investigating the offence determines that—

(i)there is not sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence, or

(ii)there is sufficient evidence to charge the person with an offence but the person should not be charged with an offence or given a caution in respect of an offence.

(2)A police officer must give the person notice in writing that the person is not to be prosecuted.

(3)Subsection (2) does not prevent the prosecution of the person for an offence if new evidence comes to light after the notice was given.

(4)In this section “caution” includes—

(a)a conditional caution within the meaning of Part 3 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003;

(b)a youth conditional caution within the meaning of Chapter 1 of Part 4 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998;

(c)a youth caution under section 66ZA of that Act.]

Textual Amendments

F460S. 60B inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 77, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 25

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

61Finger-printing.E+W

(1)Except as provided by this section no person’s fingerprints may be taken without the appropriate consent.

(2)Consent to the taking of a person’s fingerprints must be in writing if it is given at a time when he is at a police station.

[F461(3)The fingerprints of a person detained at a police station may be taken without the appropriate consent if—

(a)he is detained in consequence of his arrest for a recordable offence; and

(b)he has not had his fingerprints taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police.]

[F462(3A)[F463Where a person mentioned in paragraph (a) of subsection (3) or (4) has already had his fingerprints taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police], that fact shall be disregarded for the purposes of that subsection if—

(a)the fingerprints taken on the previous occasion do not constitute a complete set of his fingerprints; or

(b)some or all of the fingerprints taken on the previous occasion are not of sufficient quality to allow satisfactory analysis, comparison or matching (whether in the case in question or generally).]

[F464(4)The fingerprints of a person detained at a police station may be taken without the appropriate consent if—

(a)he has been charged with a recordable offence or informed that he will be reported for such an offence; and

(b)he has not had his fingerprints taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police.]

[F465(4A)The fingerprints of a person who has answered to bail at a court or police station may be taken without the appropriate consent at the court or station if—

(a)the court, or

(b)an officer of at least the rank of inspector,

authorises them to be taken.

(4B)A court or officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (4A) if—

(a)the person who has answered to bail has answered to it for a person whose fingerprints were taken on a previous occasion and there are reasonable grounds for believing that he is not the same person; or

(b)the person who has answered to bail claims to be a different person from a person whose fingerprints were taken on a previous occasion.]

(5)An officer may give an authorisation under [F466subsection (4A)] above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

[F467(5A)The fingerprints of a person may be taken without the appropriate consent if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection) he has been arrested for a recordable offence and released and—

(a)F468... he has not had his fingerprints taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police; or

(b)F469... he has had his fingerprints taken in the course of that investigation [F470but

(i)subsection (3A)(a) or (b) above applies, or

(ii)subsection (5C) below applies.]]

[F471(5B)The fingerprints of a person not detained at a police station may be taken without the appropriate consent if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection) he has been charged with a recordable offence or informed that he will be reported for such an offence and—

(a)he has not had his fingerprints taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police; or

(b)he has had his fingerprints taken in the course of that investigation [F472but

(i)subsection (3A)(a) or (b) above applies, or

(ii)subsection (5C) below applies.]]

[F473(5C)This subsection applies where—

(a)the investigation was discontinued but subsequently resumed, and

(b)before the resumption of the investigation the fingerprints were destroyed pursuant to section 63D(3) below.]

[F474(6)Subject to this section, the fingerprints of a person may be taken without the appropriate consent if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection)—

(a)he has been convicted of a recordable offence, [F475 or ]

(b)he has been given a caution in respect of a recordable offence which, at the time of the caution, he has admitted, [F476 and ]

F477(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

either of the conditions mentioned in subsection (6ZA) below is met.

(6ZA)The conditions referred to in subsection (6) above are—

(a)the person has not had his fingerprints taken since he was convicted, [F478or cautioned];

(b)he has had his fingerprints taken since then but subsection (3A)(a) or (b) above applies.

(6ZB)Fingerprints may only be taken as specified in subsection (6) above with the authorisation of an officer of at least the rank of inspector.

(6ZC)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (6ZB) above if the officer is satisfied that taking the fingerprints is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.]

[F479(6A)A constable may take a person's fingerprints without the appropriate consent if—

(a)the constable reasonably suspects that the person is committing or attempting to commit an offence, or has committed or attempted to commit an offence; and

(b)either of the two conditions mentioned in subsection (6B) is met.

(6B)The conditions are that—

(a)the name of the person is unknown to, and cannot be readily ascertained by, the constable;

(b)the constable has reasonable grounds for doubting whether a name furnished by the person as his name is his real name.

(6C)The taking of fingerprints by virtue of subsection (6A) does not count for any of the purposes of this Act as taking them in the course of the investigation of an offence by the police.]

[F480(6D)Subject to this section, the fingerprints of a person may be taken without the appropriate consent if—

(a)under the law in force in a country or territory outside England and Wales the person has been convicted of an offence under that law (whether before or after the coming into force of this subsection and whether or not he has been punished for it);

(b)the act constituting the offence would constitute a qualifying offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted); and

(c)either of the conditions mentioned in subsection (6E) below is met.

(6E)The conditions referred to in subsection (6D)(c) above are—

(a)the person has not had his fingerprints taken on a previous occasion under subsection (6D) above;

(b)he has had his fingerprints taken on a previous occasion under that subsection but subsection (3A)(a) or (b) above applies.

(6F)Fingerprints may only be taken as specified in subsection (6D) above with the authorisation of an officer of at least the rank of inspector.

(6G)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (6F) above if the officer is satisfied that taking the fingerprints is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.]

[F481(7)Where a person's fingerprints are taken without the appropriate consent by virtue of any power conferred by this section—

(a)before the fingerprints are taken, the person shall be informed of—

(i)the reason for taking the fingerprints;

(ii)the power by virtue of which they are taken; and

(iii)in a case where the authorisation of the court or an officer is required for the exercise of the power, the fact that the authorisation has been given; and

(b)those matters shall be recorded as soon as practicable after the fingerprints are taken.]

[F482(7A)If a person’s fingerprints are taken at a police station, [F483or by virtue of [F484subsection (4A), (6A)] at a place other than a police station,] whether with or without the appropriate consent—

(a)before the fingerprints are taken, an officer [F485(or, where by virtue of subsection (4A), (6A) or (6BA) the fingerprints are taken at a place other than a police station, the constable taking the fingerprints)] shall inform him that they may be the subject of a speculative search; and

(b)the fact that the person has been informed of this possibility shall be recorded as soon as is practicable after the fingerprints have been taken.]

(8)If he is detained at a police station when the fingerprints are taken, [F486the matters referred to in subsection (7)(a)(i) to (iii) above] [F487and, in the case falling within subsection (7A) above, the fact referred to in paragraph (b) of that subsection] shall be recorded on his custody record.

F488(8A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

[F489(8B)Any power under this section to take the fingerprints of a person without the appropriate consent, if not otherwise specified to be exercisable by a constable, shall be exercisable by a constable.]

(9)Nothing in this section—

(a) affects any power conferred by paragraph 18(2) of Schedule 2 to the M36Immigration Act 1971; or

[F490(b)applies to a person arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions [F491or under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023,] [F492or detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019].]

[F493(10)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested under an extradition arrest power.]

Textual Amendments

F462S. 61(3A) inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 78(3); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(a)

F463Words in s. 61(3A) substituted (5.4.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 9(3), 336; S.I. 2004/829, art. 2(1)(2)(a) (subject to art. 2(3)-(6))

F465S. 61(4A)(4B) inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 78(4); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(a)

F466Words in s. 61(5) substituted (5.4.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 9(4), 336; S.I. 2004/829, art. 2(1)(2)(a) (subject to art. 2(3)-(6))

F468Words in s. 61(5A)(a) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 59(2)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12

F469Words in s. 61(5A)(b) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 59(2)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12

F474S. 61(6)-(6ZC) substituted for s. 61(6) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 2(3), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F482S. 61(7A) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 56(a); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A

F484Words in s. 61(7A) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(2)(a), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F485S. 61(7A)(a): By Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(2)(b), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b), it is provided that the words "(or, in a subsection (6A) case, the constable)" (which were inserted (prosp.) by 2005 c. 15, s. 117(4)(b)) be substituted (7.3.2011)

F486Words in s. 61(8) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(3), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F487Words in s. 61(8) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 56(b); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A

F490S. 61(9)(b) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(7) (with s. 129(1)); S.I. 2001/421 art. 2

F493S. 61(10) inserted (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 169(3), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C438S. 61 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1985/1882, art. 6

C439S. 61 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(2); and s. 61 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 4

S. 61(1) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 61(2)-(7A) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

Marginal Citations

[F49461AImpressions of footwearE+W

(1)Except as provided by this section, no impression of a person's footwear may be taken without the appropriate consent.

(2)Consent to the taking of an impression of a person's footwear must be in writing if it is given at a time when he is at a police station.

(3)Where a person is detained at a police station, an impression of his footwear may be taken without the appropriate consent if—

(a)he is detained in consequence of his arrest for a recordable offence, or has been charged with a recordable offence, or informed that he will be reported for a recordable offence; and

(b)he has not had an impression taken of his footwear in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police.

(4)Where a person mentioned in paragraph (a) of subsection (3) above has already had an impression taken of his footwear in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police, that fact shall be disregarded for the purposes of that subsection if the impression of his footwear taken previously is—

(a)incomplete; or

(b)is not of sufficient quality to allow satisfactory analysis, comparison or matching (whether in the case in question or generally).

(5)If an impression of a person's footwear is taken at a police station, whether with or without the appropriate consent—

(a)before it is taken, an officer shall inform him that it may be the subject of a speculative search; and

(b)the fact that the person has been informed of this possibility shall be recorded as soon as is practicable after the impression has been taken, and if he is detained at a police station, the record shall be made on his custody record.

(6)In a case where, by virtue of subsection (3) above, an impression of a person's footwear is taken without the appropriate consent—

(a)he shall be told the reason before it is taken; and

(b)the reason shall be recorded on his custody record as soon as is practicable after the impression is taken.

(7)The power to take an impression of the footwear of a person detained at a police station without the appropriate consent shall be exercisable by any constable.

(8)Nothing in this section applies to any person—

(a)arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions [F495or detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019];

(b)arrested under an extradition arrest power.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

62 Intimate samples. E+W

(1)[F496Subject to section 63B below] An intimate sample may be taken from a person in police detention only—

(a)if a police officer of at least the rank of [F497inspector] authorises it to be taken; and

(b)if the appropriate consent is given.

[F498(1A)An intimate sample may be taken from a person who is not in police detention but from whom, in the course of the investigation of an offence, two or more non-intimate samples suitable for the same means of analysis have been taken which have proved insufficient—

(a)if a police officer of at least the rank of [F497inspector] authorises it to be taken; and

(b)if the appropriate consent is given.]

(2)An officer may only give an authorisation [F499under subsection (1) or (1A) above] if he has reasonable grounds—

(a)for suspecting the involvement of the person from whom the sample is to be taken in a [F500recordable offence]; and

(b)for believing that the sample will tend to confirm or disprove his involvement.

[F501(2A)An intimate sample may be taken from a person where—

(a) two or more non-intimate samples suitable for the same means of analysis have been taken from the person under section 63(3E) below (persons convicted of offences outside England and Wales etc ) but have proved insufficient;

(b)a police officer of at least the rank of inspector authorises it to be taken; and

(c)the appropriate consent is given.

(2B)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (2A) above if the officer is satisfied that taking the sample is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.]

(3)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (1) [F502or (1A)] [F503or (2A)] above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

(4)The appropriate consent must be given in writing.

[F504(5)Before an intimate sample is taken from a person, an officer shall inform him of the following—

(a)the reason for taking the sample;

(b)the fact that authorisation has been given and the provision of this section under which it has been given; and

(c)if the sample was taken at a police station, the fact that the sample may be the subject of a speculative search.

(6)The reason referred to in subsection (5)(a) above must include, except in a case where the sample is taken under subsection (2A) above, a statement of the nature of the offence in which it is suspected that the person has been involved.

(7)After an intimate sample has been taken from a person, the following shall be recorded as soon as practicable—

(a)the matters referred to in subsection (5)(a) and (b) above;

(b)if the sample was taken at a police station, the fact that the person has been informed as specified in subsection (5)(c) above; and

(c)the fact that the appropriate consent was given.]

(8)If an intimate sample is taken from a person detained at a police station, the matters required to be recorded by subsection (7) F505... above shall be recorded in his custody record.

[F506(9)In the case of an intimate sample which is a dental impression, the sample may be taken from a person only by a registered dentist.

(9A)In the case of any other form of intimate sample, except in the case of a sample of urine, the sample may be taken from a person only by—

(a)a registered medical practitioner; or

(b)a registered health care professional.]

(10)Where the appropriate consent to the taking of an intimate sample from person was refused without good cause, in any proceedings against that person for an offence—

(a)the court, in determining—

F507(i). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(ii)whether there is a case to answer; and

[F508(aa)a judge, in deciding whether to grant an application made by the accused under [F509paragraph 2 of Schedule 3 to the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (applications for dismissal); and]]

(b)the court or jury, in determining whether that person is guilty of the offence charged,

may draw such inferences from the refusal as appear proper F510... .

(11)Nothing in this section [F511applies to the taking of a specimen for the purposes of any of the provisions of] [F512sections 4 to 11 of the Road Traffic Act 1988] [F513or of sections 26 to 38 of the Transport and Works Act 1992] .

[F514(12)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions; and subsection (1A) shall not apply where the non-intimate samples mentioned in that subsection were taken under paragraph 10 of Schedule 8 to the Terrorism Act 2000.]

[F515(13)Nothing in this section applies to a person detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019; and subsection (1A) does not apply where the non-intimate samples mentioned in that subsection were taken under Part 2 of that Schedule.]

[F516(14)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023; and subsection (1A) does not apply where the non-intimate samples mentioned in that subsection were taken under paragraph 10 of Schedule 6 to that Act.]

Textual Amendments

F496Words in s. 62 inserted (20.6.2001 for specified purposes and otherwise 2.7.2001) by 2000 c. 43, s. 74, Sch. 7 para. 78; S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(k)(m)(i)

F497Word in s. 62(1)(a)(1A)(a) substituted (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 80(1), 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(h)

F498S. 62(1A) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 54(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F499Words in s. 62(2) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 54(3)(a); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F500Words in s. 62(2)(a) substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 54(3)(b); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F502Words in s. 62(3) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 54(4); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F504S. 62(5)-(7) substituted for s. 62(5)-(7A) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(4), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F506S. 62(9)(9A) substituted (1.4.2003) for s. 62(9) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 54(1), 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(e)

F507S. 62(10)(a)(i) repealed (18.6.2012 for specified purposes, 5.11.2012 for specified purposes, 28.5.2013 for specified purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 3 para. 56(2)(a), Sch. 37 Pt. 4; S.I. 2012/1320, art. 4(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with art. 5) (see S.I. 2012/2574, art. 4(2) and S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2012/2574, art. 2(2)(3)(c)(d), Sch. (with arts. 3 4) (as amended (4.11.2012) by S.I. 2012/2761, art. 2) (with S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2013/1103, art. 2(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with arts. 3 4)

F508S. 62(10)(aa) inserted (3.2.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(3), Sch. 9 para. 24; S.I. 1995/127, art. 2(1), Sch. Appendix A

F509Words in s. 62(10)(aa) substituted for s. 62(10)(aa)(i)(ii) (9.5.2005 for specified purposes, 18.6.2012 for specified purposes, 5.11.2012 for specified purposes, 28.5.2013 for specified purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 3 para. 56(2)(b); S.I. 2005/1267, art. 2(1)(2)(a), Sch. Pt. 1; S.I. 2012/1320, art. 4(1)(c)(2)(3) (with art. 5) (see S.I. 2012/2574, art. 4(2) and S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2012/2574, art. 2(2)(3)(c), Sch. (with arts. 3 4) (as amended (4.11.2012) by S.I. 2012/2761, art. 2) (with S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2013/1103, art. 2(1)(c)(2)(3) (with arts. 3 4)

F510Words in s. 62(10) repealed (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(3), Sch. 11; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix B

F511Words in s. 62(11) substituted (1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 53(2)(a), 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(d)

F514S. 62(12) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 8 (with s. 129(1)); S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C446S. 62 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2 and 1985/1882, art. 7

S. 62(1)-(11) applied (with modifications) (10.4.1995) by 1989 c. 4, Sch. 5 para. 7(6A)-(6D) (as inserted by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 62(3)); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A

S. 62(1)-(11) applied (with modifications) (10.4.1995) by 1989 c. 4, s. 15(11)-(14) (as inserted by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 62(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A)

S. 62(1)-(3)(5)-(7)(7A)(9)(10) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 62(4)(6) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

C447S. 62 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(2)(3); s. 62 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 4

63Other samples. E+W

(1)Except as provided by this section, a non-intimate sample may not be taken from a person without the appropriate consent.

(2)Consent to the taking of a non-intimate sample must be given in writing.

[F517(2A)A non-intimate sample may be taken from a person without the appropriate consent if two conditions are satisfied.

(2B)The first is that the person is in police detention in consequence of his arrest for a recordable offence.

(2C)The second is that—

(a)he has not had a non-intimate sample of the same type and from the same part of the body taken in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police, or

(b)he has had such a sample taken but it proved insufficient.]

(3)A non-intimate sample may be taken from a person without the appropriate consent if—

(a)he F518. . . is being held in custody by the police on the authority of a court; and

(b)an officer of at least the rank of [F519inspector] authorises it to be taken without the appropriate consent.

[F520(3ZA)A non-intimate sample may be taken from a person without the appropriate consent if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection) he has been arrested for a recordable offence and released and—

(a)F521... he has not had a non-intimate sample of the same type and from the same part of the body taken from him in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police; or

(b)F522... he has had a non-intimate sample taken from him in the course of that investigation but—

(i)it was not suitable for the same means of analysis, or

(ii)it proved insufficient.], or

[F523(iii)subsection (3AA) below applies.]

[F524(3A)A non-intimate sample may be taken from a person (whether or not he is in police detention or held in custody by the police on the authority of a court) without the appropriate consent if he has been charged with a recordable offence or informed that he will be reported for such an offence and—

(a)he has not had a non-intimate sample taken from him in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police; or

(b)he has had a non-intimate sample taken from him in the course of that investigation but—

(i)it was not suitable for the same means of analysis, or

(ii)it proved [F525insufficient, or

(iii)subsection (3AA) below applies; or]

(c)he has had a non-intimate sample taken from him in the course of that investigation and—

(i)the sample has been destroyed pursuant to section [F526 63R] below or any other enactment, and

(ii) it is disputed, in relation to any proceedings relating to the offence, whether a DNA profile relevant to the proceedings is derived from the sample.]

[F527(3AA)This subsection applies where the investigation was discontinued but subsequently resumed, and before the resumption of the investigation—

(a)any DNA profile derived from the sample was destroyed pursuant to section 63D(3) below, and

(b)the sample itself was destroyed pursuant to section 63R(4), (5) or (12) below.]

[F528(3B)Subject to this section, a non-intimate sample may be taken from a person without the appropriate consent if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection)—

(a)he has been convicted of a recordable offence, [F529 or]

(b)he has been given a caution in respect of a recordable offence which, at the time of the caution, he has admitted, [F530 and]

F531(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

either of the conditions mentioned in subsection (3BA) below is met.

(3BA)The conditions referred to in subsection (3B) above are—

(a)a non-intimate sample has not been taken from the person since he was convicted [F532 or cautioned];

(b)such a sample has been taken from him since then but—

(i)it was not suitable for the same means of analysis, or

(ii)it proved insufficient.

(3BB)A non-intimate sample may only be taken as specified in subsection (3B) above with the authorisation of an officer of at least the rank of inspector.

(3BC)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (3BB) above if the officer is satisfied that taking the sample is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.]

[F533(3C)A non-intimate sample may also be taken from a person without the appropriate consent if he is a person to whom section 2 of the Criminal Evidence (Amendment) Act 1997 applies (persons detained following acquittal on grounds of insanity or finding of unfitness to plead).]

[F534(3E)Subject to this section, a non-intimate sample may be taken without the appropriate consent from a person if—

(a)under the law in force in a country or territory outside England and Wales the person has been convicted of an offence under that law (whether before or after the coming into force of this subsection and whether or not he has been punished for it);

(b)the act constituting the offence would constitute a qualifying offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted); and

(c)either of the conditions mentioned in subsection (3F) below is met.

(3F)The conditions referred to in subsection (3E)(c) above are—

(a)the person has not had a non-intimate sample taken from him on a previous occasion under subsection (3E) above;

(b)he has had such a sample taken from him on a previous occasion under that subsection but—

(i)the sample was not suitable for the same means of analysis, or

(ii)it proved insufficient.

(3G)A non-intimate sample may only be taken as specified in subsection (3E) above with the authorisation of an officer of at least the rank of inspector.

(3H)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (3G) above if the officer is satisfied that taking the sample is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.]

(4)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (3) above if he has reasonable grounds—

(a)for suspecting the involvement of the person from whom the sample is to be taken in a [F535recordable offence]; and

(b)for believing that the sample will tend to confirm or disprove his involvement.

(5)An officer may give an authorisation under subsection (3) above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

[F536(5A)An officer shall not give an authorisation under subsection (3) above for the taking from any person of a non-intimate sample consisting of a skin impression if—

(a)a skin impression of the same part of the body has already been taken from that person in the course of the investigation of the offence; and

(b)the impression previously taken is not one that has proved insufficient.]

[F537(6)Where a non-intimate sample is taken from a person without the appropriate consent by virtue of any power conferred by this section—

(a)before the sample is taken, an officer shall inform him of—

(i)the reason for taking the sample;

(ii)the power by virtue of which it is taken; and

(iii)in a case where the authorisation of an officer is required for the exercise of the power, the fact that the authorisation has been given; and

(b)those matters shall be recorded as soon as practicable after the sample is taken.

(7)The reason referred to in subsection (6)(a)(i) above must include, except in a case where the non-intimate sample is taken under subsection (3B) or (3E) above, a statement of the nature of the offence in which it is suspected that the person has been involved.]

[F538(8B)If a non-intimate sample is taken from a person at a police station, whether with or without the appropriate consent—

(a)before the sample is taken, an officer shall inform him that it may be the subject of a speculative search; and

(b)the fact that the person has been informed of this possibility shall be recorded as soon as practicable after the sample has been taken.]

(9)If a non-intimate sample is taken from a person detained at a police station, the matters required to be recorded by [F539subsection (6) or (8B)] above shall be recorded in his custody record.

[F540(9ZA)The power to take a non-intimate sample from a person without the appropriate consent shall be exercisable by any constable.]

[F541(9A)Subsection (3B) above shall not apply to

[F542(a)] any person convicted before 10th April 1995 unless he is a person to whom section 1 of the Criminal Evidence (Amendment) Act 1997 applies (persons imprisoned or detained by virtue of pre-existing conviction for sexual offence etc.).] [F543; or

(b)a person given a caution before 10th April 1995.]

[F544(10)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under the terrorism provisions [F545or detained under Part 1 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019].]

[F546(10A)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested or detained under section 27 of the National Security Act 2023.]

[F547(11)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested under an extradition arrest power.]

Textual Amendments

F517S. 63(2A)-(2C) inserted (5.4.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 10(2), 336; S.I. 2004/829, art. 2(1)(2)(a) (subject to art. 2(3)-(6))

F519Word in s. 63(3)(b) substituted (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 80(1), 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(h)

F521Words in s. 63(3ZA)(a) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 59(3)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12

F522Words in s. 63(3ZA)(b) omitted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by virtue of Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 59(3)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 12Text here

F526Word in s. 63(3A)(c)(i) substituted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), s. 120, Sch. 9 para. 3(2) (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/2104, art. 3(c)

F528S. 63(3B)-(3BC) substituted for s. 63(3B) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 2(7), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F533S. 63(3C) inserted (19.3.1997) by 1997 c. 17, s. 2(1)(2)(a)(3)-(7)

F535Words in s. 63(4)(a) substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 55(3); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F536S. 63(5A) inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(3); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F537S. 63(6)(7) substituted for s. 63(6)-(8A) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(7), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F538S. 63(8B) inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 58(a); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A

F539Words in s. 63(9) substituted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 4(8), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F541S. 63(9A) substituted for the subsection (10) inserted in s. 63 by 1994 c. 33, s. 55(6) (19.3.1997) by 1997 c. 17, s. 1(1)(a)(2)(3)(6)

F542Words in s. 63(9A) renumbered as s. 63(9A)(a) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 2(8)(a), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F543S. 63(9A)(b) and word inserted (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 2(8)(b), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(b)

F544S. 63(10) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(9) (with s. 129(1));S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

F547S. 63(11) inserted (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 169(4), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C452S. 63 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2 and 1985/1882, art. 8

S. 63(1)-(9) applied (with modifications) (10.4.1995) by 1989 c. 4, s. 15(11)-(14) (as inserted by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 62(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A)

S. 63(1)-(9) applied (with modifications) (10.4.1995) by 1989 c. 4, Sch. 5 para. 7(6A)-(6D) (as inserted by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(2), Sch. 10 para. 62(3); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix A)

S. 63(1)(2)(7) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 63(3)-(6)(8)-(8B) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

C453S. 63 modified (2.8.1993) by S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3(2)(3); s. 63 modified by the said S.I. 1993/1813, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 3 as incorporated (with modifications) (1.12.1997) by S.I. 1994/1405, art. 6, Sch. 3 para. 4

[F548 63A Fingerprints and samples: supplementary provisions.E+W

[F549(1)Where a person has been arrested on suspicion of being involved in a recordable offence or has been charged with such an offence or has been informed that he will be reported for such an offence, fingerprints [F550, impressions of footwear] or samples or the information derived from samples taken under any power conferred by this Part of this Act from the person may be checked against—

(a)other fingerprints [F550, impressions of footwear] or samples to which the person seeking to check has access and which are held by or on behalf of [F551any one or more relevant law-enforcement authorities or which] are held in connection with or as a result of an investigation of an offence;

(b)information derived from other samples if the information is contained in records to which the person seeking to check has access and which are held as mentioned in paragraph (a) above.

[F552(1ZA)Fingerprints taken by virtue of section 61(6A) above may be checked against other fingerprints to which the person seeking to check has access and which are held by or on behalf of any one or more relevant law-enforcement authorities or which are held in connection with or as a result of an investigation of an offence.]

[F553(1A) In subsection (1) [F554 and (1ZA) ] above “ relevant law-enforcement authority ” means—

(a)a police force;

[F555(b)the [F556 National Crime Agency ];]

[F557(ba)the tri-service serious crime unit;]

(d)a public authority (not falling within paragraphs (a) to [F558(ba)]) with functions in any part of the British Islands which consist of or include the investigation of crimes or the charging of offenders;

(e)any person with functions in any country or territory outside the United Kingdom which—

(i)correspond to those of a police force; or

(ii)otherwise consist of or include the investigation of conduct contrary to the law of that country or territory, or the apprehension of persons guilty of such conduct;

(f)any person with functions under any international agreement which consist of or include the investigation of conduct which is—

(i)unlawful under the law of one or more places,

(ii)prohibited by such an agreement, or

(iii)contrary to international law,

or the apprehension of persons guilty of such conduct.

F553(1B)The reference in subsection (1A) above to a police force is a reference to any of the following—

(a)any police force maintained under section 2 of the Police Act 1996 (c. 16) (police forces in England and Wales outside London);

(b)the metropolitan police force;

(c)the City of London police force;

[F559(d)the Police Service of Scotland;]

(e)the Police Service of Northern Ireland;

(f)the Police Service of Northern Ireland Reserve;

(g)the Ministry of Defence Police;

(h)the [F560Royal Navy Police];

(i)the Royal Military Police;

(j)the Royal Air Force Police;

F561(k) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(l)the British Transport Police;

(m)the States of Jersey Police Force;

(n)the salaried police force of the Island of Guernsey;

(o)the Isle of Man Constabulary.

[F562(1BA)In subsection (1A) “tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.]

F553(1C)Where—

(a)fingerprints [F563, impressions of footwear] or samples have been taken from any person in connection with the investigation of an offence but otherwise than in circumstances to which subsection (1) above applies, and

(b)that person has given his consent in writing to the use in a speculative search of the fingerprints [F564, of the impressions of footwear] or of the samples and of information derived from them,

the fingerprints [F565or impressions of footwear] or, as the case may be, those samples and that information may be checked against any of the fingerprints [F566, impressions of footwear], samples or information mentioned in paragraph (a) or (b) of that subsection.

F553(1D)A consent given for the purposes of subsection (1C) above shall not be capable of being withdrawn.]]

[F567(1E) Where fingerprints or samples have been taken from any person under section 61(6) or 63(3B) above (persons convicted etc ), the fingerprints or samples, or information derived from the samples, may be checked against any of the fingerprints, samples or information mentioned in subsection (1)(a) or (b) above.

(1F) Where fingerprints or samples have been taken from any person under section 61(6D), 62(2A) or 63(3E) above (offences outside England and Wales etc ), the fingerprints or samples, or information derived from the samples, may be checked against any of the fingerprints, samples or information mentioned in subsection (1)(a) or (b) above. ]

(2)Where a sample of hair other than pubic hair is to be taken the sample may be taken either by cutting hairs or by plucking hairs with their roots so long as no more are plucked than the person taking the sample reasonably considers to be necessary for a sufficient sample.

(3) Where any power to take a sample is exercisable in relation to a person the sample may be taken in a prison or other institution to which the M37 Prison Act 1952 applies.

[F568(3A)Where—

(a) the power to take a non-intimate sample under section 63(3B) above is exercisable in relation to any person who is detained under Part III of the M38 Mental Health Act 1983 in pursuance of—

(i)a hospital order or interim hospital order made following his conviction for the recordable offence in question, or

(ii)a transfer direction given at a time when he was detained in pursuance of any sentence or order imposed following that conviction, or

(b)the power to take a non-intimate sample under section 63(3C) above is exercisable in relation to any person,

the sample may be taken in the hospital in which he is detained under that Part of that Act.

Expressions used in this subsection and in the M39 Mental Health Act 1983 have the same meaning as in that Act.

(3B)Where the power to take a non-intimate sample under section 63(3B) above is exercisable in relation to a person detained in pursuance of directions of the Secretary of State under [F569section 92 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000] [F570or section 260 of the Sentencing Code,] the sample may be taken at the place where he is so detained.]

[F571(4)Schedule 2A (fingerprinting and samples: power to require attendance at police station) shall have effect.]]

Textual Amendments

F548S. 63A inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 56; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F549S. 63A(1)(1A) substituted for s. 63A(1) (5.7.1996) by 1996 c. 25, s. 64 (with s. 78(1))

F551Words in s. 63A(1)(a) substituted (11.5.2001) by 2001 c. 16, s. 81(1)

F553S. 63A(1A)-(1D) substituted (11.5.2001) for s. 63A(1A) by 2001 c. 16, s. 81(2)

F555S. 63A(1A)(b) substituted (1.4.2006) for s. 63A(1A)(b)(c) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 59, 178, Sch. 4 para. 46; S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. para. 10 (subject to art. 4(2)-(7))

F556Words in s. 63A(1A)(b) substituted (7.10.2013) by Crime and Courts Act 2013 (c. 22), s. 61(2), Sch. 8 para. 186; S.I. 2013/1682, art. 3(v)

F557S. 63A(1A)(ba) inserted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 5 para. 1(2)(a); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e); S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

F558Word in s. 63A(1A)(d) substituted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 5 para. 1(2)(b); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e); S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

F560Words in s. 63A(1B)(h) substituted (4.6.2007) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 100(a); S.I. 2007/1442, art. 2(1)

F561S. 63A(1B)(k) omitted (1.1.2008) by virtue of and repealed (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 100(b), Sch. 17; S.I. 2007/2913, art. 3; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F562S. 63A(1BA) inserted (1.5.2022 for specified purposes, 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force) by Armed Forces Act 2021 (c. 35), s. 24(1), Sch. 5 para. 1(3); S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e); S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

F568S. 63A(3A)(3B) inserted (19.3.1997) by 1997 c. 17, s. 3

F569Words in s. 63A(3B) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165(1), 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 97

F571S. 63A(4) substituted for s. 63(4)-(8) (7.3.2011) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 6(1), 59(1); S.I. 2011/414, art. 2(c)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C458S. 63A(1) restricted (1.9.2001) by 2001 c. 17, s. 34(1), Sch. 4 para. 7(3); S.I. 2001/2161, art. 2 (subject to art. 3)

C461S. 63A(1) applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 63A(2) applied (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

Marginal Citations

[F57263AAInclusion of DNA profiles on National DNA DatabaseE+W

(1)This section applies to a DNA profile which is derived from a DNA sample and which is retained under any power conferred by any of sections 63E to 63L (including those sections as applied by section 63P).

(2)A DNA profile to which this section applies must be recorded on the National DNA Database.]

Textual Amendments

[F57363ABNational DNA Database Strategy BoardE+W

(1)The Secretary of State must make arrangements for a National DNA Database Strategy Board to oversee the operation of the National DNA Database.

(2)The National DNA Database Strategy Board must issue guidance about the destruction of DNA profiles which are, or may be, retained under this Part of this Act.

(3)A chief officer of a police force in England and Wales must act in accordance with guidance issued under subsection (2).

(4)The National DNA Database Strategy Board may issue guidance about the circumstances in which applications may be made to the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material under section 63G.

(5)Before issuing any such guidance, the National DNA Database Strategy Board must consult the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material.

(6)The Secretary of State must publish the governance rules of the National DNA Database Strategy Board and lay a copy of the rules before Parliament.

(7)The National DNA Database Strategy Board must make an annual report to the Secretary of State about the exercise of its functions.

(8)The Secretary of State must publish the report and lay a copy of the published report before Parliament.

(9)The Secretary of State may exclude from publication any part of the report if, in the opinion of the Secretary of State, the publication of that part would be contrary to the public interest or prejudicial to national security.]

Textual Amendments

[F57463B Testing for presence of Class A drugs.E+W

(1)A sample of urine or a non-intimate sample may be taken from a person in police detention for the purpose of ascertaining whether he has any specified Class A drug in his body if

[F575(a)either the arrest condition or the charge condition is met;

(b)both the age condition and the request condition are met; and

(c)the notification condition is met in relation to the arrest condition, the charge condition or the age condition (as the case may be).]

[F576(1A)The arrest condition is that the person concerned has been arrested for an offence but has not been charged with that offence and either—

(a)the offence is a trigger offence; or

(b)a police officer of at least the rank of inspector has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the misuse by that person of a specified Class A drug caused or contributed to the offence and has authorised the sample to be taken.]

(2)[F577The charge condition is either]—

(a)that the person concerned has been charged with a trigger offence; or

(b)that the person concerned has been charged with an offence and a police officer of at least the rank of inspector, who has reasonable grounds for suspecting that the misuse by that person of any specified Class A drug caused or contributed to the offence, has authorised the sample to be taken.

[F578(3)The age condition is—

(a)if the arrest condition is met, that the person concerned has attained the age of 18;

(b)if the charge condition is met, that he has attained the age of 14.]

(4)The [F579request] condition is that a police officer has requested the person concerned to give the sample.

[F580(4A)The notification condition is that—

(a)the relevant chief officer has been notified by the Secretary of State that appropriate arrangements have been made for the police area as a whole, or for the particular police station, in which the person is in police detention, and

(b)the notice has not been withdrawn.

(4B)For the purposes of subsection (4A) above, appropriate arrangements are arrangements for the taking of samples under this section from whichever of the following is specified in the notification—

(a)persons in respect of whom the arrest condition is met;

(b)persons in respect of whom the charge condition is met;

(c)persons who have not attained the age of 18.]

(5)Before requesting the person concerned to give a sample, an officer must—

(a)warn him that if, when so requested, he fails without good cause to do so he may be liable to prosecution, and

(b)in a case within subsection [F581(1A)(b) or] (2)(b) above, inform him of the giving of the authorisation and of the grounds in question.

[F582(5A)In the case of a person who [F583has not attained the age of 18]—

(a)the making of the request under subsection (4) above;

(b)the giving of the warning and (where applicable) the information under subsection (5) above; and

(c)the taking of the sample,

may not take place except in the presence of an appropriate adult.]

[F584(5B)If a sample is taken under this section from a person in respect of whom the arrest condition is met no other sample may be taken from him under this section during the same continuous period of detention but—

(a)if the charge condition is also met in respect of him at any time during that period, the sample must be treated as a sample taken by virtue of the fact that the charge condition is met;

(b)the fact that the sample is to be so treated must be recorded in the person's custody record.

(5C)Despite subsection (1)(a) above, a sample may be taken from a person under this section if—

(a)he was arrested for an offence (the first offence),

(b)the arrest condition is met but the charge condition is not met,

(c)before a sample is taken by virtue of subsection (1) above he would (but for his arrest as mentioned in paragraph (d) below) be required to be released from police detention,

(d)he continues to be in police detention by virtue of his having been arrested for an offence not falling within subsection (1A) above, and

(e)the sample is taken before the end of the period of 24 hours starting with the time when his detention by virtue of his arrest for the first offence began.

(5D)A sample must not be taken from a person under this section if he is detained in a police station unless he has been brought before the custody officer.]

(6)A sample may be taken under this section only by a person prescribed by regulations made by the Secretary of State by statutory instrument.

No regulations shall be made under this subsection unless a draft has been laid before, and approved by resolution of, each House of Parliament.

[F585[F586(6A)The Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument amend—

(a)paragraph (a) of subsection (3) above, by substituting for the age for the time being specified a different age specified in the order, or different ages so specified for different police areas so specified;

(b)paragraph (b) of that subsection, by substituting for the age for the time being specified a different age specified in the order.]

(6B)A statutory instrument containing an order under subsection (6A) above shall not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament.]

(7)Information obtained from a sample taken under this section may be disclosed—

(a)for the purpose of informing any decision about granting bail in criminal proceedings (within the meaning of the M40Bail Act 1976) to the person concerned;

[F587(aa)for the purpose of informing any decision about the giving of a conditional caution under Part 3 of the Criminal Justice Act 2003 [F588or a youth conditional caution under Chapter 1 of Part 4 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998] to the person concerned;]

(b)where the person concerned is in police detention or is remanded in or committed to custody by an order of a court or has been granted such bail, for the purpose of informing any decision about his supervision;

(c)where the person concerned is convicted of an offence, for the purpose of informing any decision about the appropriate sentence to be passed by a court and any decision about his supervision or release;

[F589(ca)for the purpose of an assessment which the person concerned is required to attend by virtue of section 9(2) or 10(2) of the Drugs Act 2005;

(cb)for the purpose of proceedings against the person concerned for an offence under section 12(3) or 14(3) of that Act;]

(d)for the purpose of ensuring that appropriate advice and treatment is made available to the person concerned.

(8)A person who fails without good cause to give any sample which may be taken from him under this section shall be guilty of an offence.

[F590(9)F591. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(10)In this section—

  • “appropriate adult”, in relation to a person who[F592has not attained the age of 18], means—

    (a)

    his parent or guardian or, if he is in the care of a local authority or voluntary organisation, a person representing that authority or organisation; or

    (b)

    F593a social worker of a local authority . . . ; or

    (c)

    if no person falling within paragraph (a) or (b) is available, any responsible person aged 18 or over who is not a police officer or[F594a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes; and “police purposes” has the meaning given by section 101(2) of the Police Act 1996];

  • “relevant chief officer” means—

    (a)

    in relation to a police area, the chief officer of police of the police force for that police area; or

    (b)

    in relation to a police station, the chief officer of police of the police force for the police area in which the police station is situated.]]

Textual Amendments

F574S. 63B inserted (for certain purposes on 20.6.2001, 2.7.2001, 20.5.2002, 2.9.2002, 1.4.2003, 1.4.2004 and otherwise prosp.) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 57(2), 80(1); S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(f); S.I. 2002/1149, art. 2; S.I. 2002/1862, art. 2; S.I. 2003/709, art. 2; S.I. 2004/780, art. 2

F575S. 63B(1)(a)-(c) substituted (1.12.2005) for words in s. 63B(1) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(2), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F576S. 63B(1A) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(3), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F577Words in s. 63B(2) substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(4), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F578S. 63B(3) substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(5), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F579Word in s. 63B(4) substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(6), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F580S. 63B(4A)(4B) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(7), 24; (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F581Words in s. 63B(5)(b) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(8), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F582S. 63B(5A) inserted (1.8.2004 for certain purposes and otherwise 1.12.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 5(3)(b), 336; S.I. 2004/1867, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3055, art. 2

F583Words in s. 63B(5A) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 73(3)(a), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 22

F584S. 63B(5B)-(5D) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(9), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F585S. 63B(6A)(6B) inserted (1.8.2004 for certain purposes and otherwise 1.12.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 5(3)(c), 336; S.I. 2004/1867, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3055, art. 2

F586S. 63B(6A) substituted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(10), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F587S. 63B(7)(aa) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 7(11), 24 (with s. 7(13)(14)); S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(a)

F588Words in s. 63B(7)(aa) substituted (16.11.2009 in relation to the areas specified in art. 2(2) of the commencing S.I.) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), ss. 148, 153, Sch. 26 para. 20(2); S.I. 2009/2780, art. 2

F589S. 63B(7)(ca)(cb) inserted (1.12.2005) by Drugs Act 2005 (c. 17), ss. 23, 24, Sch. 1 para. 4; S.I. 2005/3053, art. 2(1)(f)

F590S. 63B(9)(10) inserted (1.8.2004 for certain purposes and otherwise 1.12.2005) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 5(3)(d), 336; S.I. 2004/1867, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3055, art. 2

F592Words in s. 63B(10) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 73(3)(b), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 22

F593S. 63B(10): words in definition of "appropriate adult" repealed (1.4.2005 for E. and 1.4.2006 for W.) by Children Act 2004 (c. 31), ss. 64, 67, Sch. 5 Pt. 4; S.I. 2005/394, art. 2(2)(g); S.I. 2006/885, art. 2(2)(h)

F594Words in s. 63B(10)(c) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 79(1), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 27

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C463S. 63B(2): power to amend conferred (for certain purposes on 20.6.2001, 2.7.2001, 20.5.2002, 2.9.2002, 1.4.2003, 1.4.2004, 1.4.2005 and 1.12.2005) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 57(4), 80(1); S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(f); S.I. 2002/1149, art. 2; S.I. 2002/1862, art. 2; S.I. 2003/709, art. 2; S.I. 2004/780, art. 2; S.I. 2005/596, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3054, art. 2

Marginal Citations

F59563C Testing for presence of Class A drugs: supplementary.E+W

(1)A person guilty of an offence under section 63B above shall be liable on summary conviction to imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or to a fine not exceeding level 4 on the standard scale, or to both.

(2)A police officer may give an authorisation under section 63B above orally or in writing but, if he gives it orally, he shall confirm it in writing as soon as is practicable.

(3)If a sample is taken under section 63B above by virtue of an authorisation, the authorisation and the grounds for the suspicion shall be recorded as soon as is practicable after the sample is taken.

(4)If the sample is taken from a person detained at a police station, the matters required to be recorded by subsection (3) above shall be recorded in his custody record.

(5)Subsections (11) and (12) of section 62 above apply for the purposes of section 63B above as they do for the purposes of that section; and section 63B above does not prejudice the generality of sections 62 and 63 above.

(6)In section 63B above—

  • “Class A drug” and “misuse” have the same meanings as in the M41Misuse of Drugs Act 1971;

  • “specified” (in relation to a Class A drug) and “trigger offence” have the same meanings as in Part III of the Criminal Justice and Court Services Act 2000.

Textual Amendments

F595S. 63C inserted (for certain purposes on 20.6.2001, 2.7.2001, 20.5.2002, 2.9.2002, 1.4.2003, 1.4.2004, 1.4.2005 and otherwise 1.12.2005) by 2000 c. 43, ss. 57(3)(a), 80(1); S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(f); S.I. 2002/1149, art. 2; S.I. 2002/1862, art. 2; S.I. 2003/709, art. 2; S.I. 2004/780, art. 2; S.I. 2005/596, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3054, art. 2

Marginal Citations

[F59663DDestruction of fingerprints and DNA profilesE+W

(1)This section applies to—

(a)fingerprints—

(i)taken from a person under any power conferred by this Part of this Act, or

(ii)taken by the police, with the consent of the person from whom they were taken, in connection with the investigation of an offence by the police, and

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample taken as mentioned in paragraph (a)(i) or (ii).

(2)Fingerprints and DNA profiles to which this section applies (“section 63D material”) must be destroyed if it appears to the responsible chief officer of police that—

(a)the taking of the fingerprint or, in the case of a DNA profile, the taking of the sample from which the DNA profile was derived, was unlawful, or

(b)the fingerprint was taken, or, in the case of a DNA profile, was derived from a sample taken, from a person in connection with that person's arrest and the arrest was unlawful or based on mistaken identity.

(3)In any other case, section 63D material must be destroyed unless it is retained under any power conferred by sections 63E to 63O (including those sections as applied by section 63P).

(4)Section 63D material which ceases to be retained under a power mentioned in subsection (3) may continue to be retained under any other such power which applies to it.

(5)Nothing in this section prevents a speculative search, in relation to section 63D material, from being carried out within such time as may reasonably be required for the search if the responsible chief officer of police considers the search to be desirable.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F59763ERetention of section 63D material pending investigation or proceedingsE+W

(1)This section applies to section 63D material taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of an offence in which it is suspected that the person to whom the material relates has been involved.

(2)The material may be retained until the conclusion of the investigation of the offence or, where the investigation gives rise to proceedings against the person for the offence, until the conclusion of those proceedings.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F59863FRetention of section 63D material: persons arrested for or charged with a qualifying offenceE+W

(1)This section applies to section 63D material which—

(a)relates to a person who is arrested for, or charged with, a qualifying offence but is not convicted of that offence, and

(b)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence.

(2)If the person has previously been convicted of a recordable offence which is not an excluded offence, or is so convicted before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the material may be retained indefinitely.

[F599(2A)In subsection (2), references to a recordable offence include an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales (and, in the application of subsection (2) where a person has previously been convicted, this applies whether or not the act constituted such an offence when the person was convicted).]

(3)Otherwise, material falling within subsection (4) [F600, (5) or (5A) ] may be retained until the end of the retention period specified in subsection (6).

(4)Material falls within this subsection if it—

(a)relates to a person who is charged with a qualifying offence but is not convicted of that offence, and

(b)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence.

(5)Material falls within this subsection if—

(a)it relates to a person who is arrested for a qualifying offence [F601, other than a terrorism-related qualifying offence [F602or a national security-related qualifying offence],] but is not charged with that offence,

(b)it was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence, and

(c)the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material has consented under section 63G to the retention of the material.

[F603(5A)Material falls within this subsection if—

(a)it relates to a person who is arrested for a terrorism-related qualifying offence [F604or a national security-related qualifying offence] but is not charged with that offence, and

(b)it was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence.]

(6)The retention period is—

(a)in the case of fingerprints, the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints were taken, and

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(7)The responsible chief officer of police or a specified chief officer of police may apply to a District Judge (Magistrates' Courts) for an order extending the retention period.

(8)An application for an order under subsection (7) must be made within the period of 3 months ending on the last day of the retention period.

(9)An order under subsection (7) may extend the retention period by a period which—

(a)begins with the end of the retention period, and

(b)ends with the end of the period of 2 years beginning with the end of the retention period.

(10)The following persons may appeal to the Crown Court against an order under subsection (7), or a refusal to make such an order—

(a)the responsible chief officer of police;

(b)a specified chief officer of police;

(c)the person from whom the material was taken.

(11)In this section—

  • “excluded offence”, in relation to a person, means a recordable offence—

    (a)

    which—

    (i)

    is not a qualifying offence,

    (ii)

    is the only recordable offence of which the person has been convicted, and

    (iii)

    was committed when the person was aged under 18, and

    (b)

    for which the person was not given a relevant custodial sentence of 5 years or more,

  • [F605“national security-related qualifying offence” means—

    (a)

    an offence under section 18 of the National Security Act 2023 or for the time being listed in section 33(3)(a) of that Act, or

    (b)

    an ancillary offence, as defined in section 65A(5), relating to an offence for the time being listed in section 33(3)(a) of that Act,]

  • “relevant custodial sentence” has the meaning given by section 63K(6),

  • “a specified chief officer of police” means—

    (a)

    the chief officer of the police force of the area in which the person from whom the material was taken resides, or

    (b)

    a chief officer of police who believes that the person is in, or is intending to come to, the chief officer's police area.]

  • [F606“terrorism-related qualifying offence” means—

    (a)

    an offence for the time being listed in section 41(1) of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (see section 65A(2)(r) below), or

    (b)

    an ancillary offence, as defined by section 65A(5) below, relating to an offence for the time being listed in section 41(1) of that Act.]

[F607(12)For the purposes of the definition of “excluded offence” in subsection (11)—

(a)references to a recordable offence or a qualifying offence include an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence or (as the case may be) a qualifying offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted), and

(b)in the application of paragraph (b) of that definition in relation to an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales, the reference to a relevant custodial sentence of 5 years or more is to be read as a reference to a sentence of imprisonment or other form of detention of 5 years or more.]

Textual Amendments

F599S. 63F(2A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(2), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

F607S. 63F(12) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(3), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F60863GRetention of section 63D material by virtue of section 63F(5): consent of CommissionerE+W

(1)The responsible chief officer of police may apply under subsection (2) or (3) to the Commissioner for the Retention and Use of Biometric Material for consent to the retention of section 63D material which falls within section 63F(5)(a) and (b).

(2)The responsible chief officer of police may make an application under this subsection if the responsible chief officer of police considers that the material was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of an offence where any alleged victim of the offence was, at the time of the offence—

(a)under the age of 18,

(b)a vulnerable adult, or

(c)associated with the person to whom the material relates.

(3)The responsible chief officer of police may make an application under this subsection if the responsible chief officer of police considers that—

(a)the material is not material to which subsection (2) relates, but

(b)the retention of the material is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.

(4)The Commissioner may, on an application under this section, consent to the retention of material to which the application relates if the Commissioner considers that it is appropriate to retain the material.

(5)But where notice is given under subsection (6) in relation to the application, the Commissioner must, before deciding whether or not to give consent, consider any representations by the person to whom the material relates which are made within the period of 28 days beginning with the day on which the notice is given.

(6)The responsible chief officer of police must give to the person to whom the material relates notice of—

(a)an application under this section, and

(b)the right to make representations.

(7)A notice under subsection (6) may, in particular, be given to a person by—

(a)leaving it at the person's usual or last known address (whether residential or otherwise),

(b)sending it to the person by post at that address, or

(c)sending it to the person by email or other electronic means.

(8)The requirement in subsection (6) does not apply if the whereabouts of the person to whom the material relates is not known and cannot, after reasonable inquiry, be ascertained by the responsible chief officer of police.

(9)An application or notice under this section must be in writing.

(10)In this section—

  • “victim” includes intended victim,

  • “vulnerable adult” means a person aged 18 or over whose ability to protect himself or herself from violence, abuse or neglect is significantly impaired through physical or mental disability or illness, through old age or otherwise,

and the reference in subsection (2)(c) to a person being associated with another person is to be read in accordance with section 62(3) to (7) of the Family Law Act 1996.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F60963HRetention of section 63D material: persons arrested for or charged with a minor offenceE+W

(1)This section applies to section 63D material which—

(a)relates to a person who—

(i)is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence,

(ii)if arrested for or charged with more than one offence arising out of a single course of action, is not also arrested for or charged with a qualifying offence, and

(iii)is not convicted of the offence or offences in respect of which the person is arrested or charged, and

(b)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence or offences in respect of which the person is arrested or charged.

(2)If the person has previously been convicted of a recordable offence which is not an excluded offence, the material may be retained indefinitely.

[F610(2A)In subsection (2), the reference to a recordable offence includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted).]

(3)In this section “excluded offence” has the meaning given by section 63F(11) [F611(read with section 63F(12))].]

Textual Amendments

F610S. 63H(2A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

F611Words in s. 63H(3) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(5), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F61263IRetention of material: persons convicted of a recordable offenceE+W

(1)This section applies, subject to subsection (3), to—

(a)section 63D material which—

(i)relates to a person who is convicted of a recordable offence, and

(ii)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)material taken under section 61(6) or 63(3B) which relates to a person who is convicted of a recordable offence.

(2)The material may be retained indefinitely.

(3)This section does not apply to section 63D material to which section 63K applies.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F61363IARetention of material: persons convicted of an offence outside England and Wales after taking of section 63D materialE+W

(1)This section applies where—

(a)section 63D material is taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of an offence,

(b)at any time before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this Part of this Act, the person is convicted of an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales, and

(c)the act constituting the offence mentioned in paragraph (b) would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales.

(2)The material may be retained indefinitely.

(3)This section does not apply where section 63KA applies.]

Textual Amendments

F613S. 63IA inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(6), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

[F61463JRetention of material: persons convicted of an offence outside England and Wales[F615: other cases] E+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who is convicted of an offence under the law of any country or territory outside England and Wales.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints taken from the person under section 61(6D) (power to take fingerprints without consent in relation to offences outside England and Wales), or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample taken from the person under section 62(2A) or 63(3E) (powers to take intimate and non-intimate samples in relation to offences outside England and Wales).

(3)The material may be retained indefinitely.]

Textual Amendments

F615Words in s. 63J inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(7), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F61663KRetention of section 63D material: exception for persons under 18 convicted of first minor offenceE+W

(1)This section applies to section 63D material which—

(a)relates to a person who—

(i)is convicted of a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence,

(ii)has not previously been convicted of a recordable offence, and

(iii)is aged under 18 at the time of the offence, and

(b)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence.

[F617(1A)In subsection (1)(a)(ii), the reference to a recordable offence includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted).]

(2)Where the person is given a relevant custodial sentence of less than 5 years in respect of the offence, the material may be retained until the end of the period consisting of the term of the sentence plus 5 years.

(3)Where the person is given a relevant custodial sentence of 5 years or more in respect of the offence, the material may be retained indefinitely.

(4)Where the person is given a sentence other than a relevant custodial sentence in respect of the offence, the material may be retained until—

(a)in the case of fingerprints, the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints were taken, and

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, the end of the period of 5 years beginning with—

(i)the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken, or

(ii)if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken.

(5)But if, before the end of the period within which material may be retained by virtue of this section, the person is again convicted of a recordable offence, the material may be retained indefinitely.

[F618(5A)In subsection (5), the reference to a recordable offence includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales.]

(6)In this section, “relevant custodial sentence” means any of the following—

(a)a custodial sentence within the meaning of section 76 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing) Act 2000 [F619or section 222 of the Sentencing Code];

(b)a sentence of a period of detention and training (excluding any period of supervision) which a person is liable to serve under an order under section 211 of the Armed Forces Act 2006 or a secure training order.]

Textual Amendments

F617S. 63K(1A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(8), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

F618S. 63K(5A) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(9), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F62063KARetention of section 63D material under section 63IA: exception for persons under 18 convicted of first minor offence outside England and WalesE+W

(1)This section applies where—

(a)section 63D material is taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) in connection with the investigation of an offence,

(b)at any time before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this Part of this Act, the person is convicted of an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales,

(c)the act constituting the offence mentioned in paragraph (b) would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales but would not constitute a qualifying offence,

(d)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the offence mentioned in paragraph (b), and

(e)the person has not previously been convicted of a recordable offence.

(2)In subsection (1)(e), the reference to a recordable offence includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted).

(3)Where the person is sentenced to imprisonment or another form of detention for less than 5 years in respect of the offence mentioned in subsection (1)(b), the section 63D material may be retained until the end of the period consisting of the term of the sentence plus 5 years.

(4)Where the person is sentenced to imprisonment or another form of detention for 5 years or more in respect of the offence mentioned in subsection (1)(b), the material may be retained indefinitely.

(5)Where the person is given a sentence other than a sentence of imprisonment or other form of detention in respect of the offence mentioned in subsection (1)(b), the material may be retained until the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date on which the person was arrested for the offence (or, if the person was not arrested for the offence, the date on which the person was charged with it).

(6)But if, before the end of the period within which material may be retained by virtue of this section, the person is again convicted of a recordable offence, the material may be retained indefinitely.

(7)In subsection (6), the reference to a recordable offence includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales.]

Textual Amendments

F620S. 63KA inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(10), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

[F62163LRetention of section 63D material: persons given a penalty noticeE+W

(1)This section applies to section 63D material which—

(a)relates to a person who is given a penalty notice under section 2 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001 and in respect of whom no proceedings are brought for the offence to which the notice relates, and

(b)was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence to which the notice relates.

(2)The material may be retained—

(a)in the case of fingerprints, for a period of 2 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, for a period of 2 years beginning with—

(i)the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken, or

(ii)if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F62263MRetention of section 63D material for purposes of national securityE+W

(1)Section 63D material may be retained for as long as a national security determination made by [F623 a ] chief officer of police has effect in relation to it.

(2)A national security determination is made if [F624 a ] chief officer of police determines that it is necessary for any section 63D material to be retained for the purposes of national security.

(3)A national security determination—

(a)must be made in writing,

(b)has effect for a maximum of [F6255 years] beginning with the date on which it is made, and

(c)may be renewed.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F62663NRetention of section 63D material given voluntarilyE+W

(1)This section applies to the following section 63D material—

(a)fingerprints taken with the consent of the person from whom they were taken, and

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample taken with the consent of the person from whom the sample was taken.

(2)Material to which this section applies may be retained until it has fulfilled the purpose for which it was taken or derived.

(3)Material to which this section applies which relates to—

(a)a person who is convicted of a recordable offence, or

(b)a person who has previously been convicted of a recordable offence (other than a person who has only one exempt conviction),

may be retained indefinitely.

(4)For the purposes of subsection (3)(b), a conviction is exempt if it is in respect of a recordable offence, other than a qualifying offence, committed when the person is aged under 18.

[F627(5)The reference to a recordable offence in subsection (3)(a) includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence if done in England and Wales.

(6)The reference to a recordable offence in subsections (3)(b) and (4), and the reference to a qualifying offence in subsection (4), includes an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales where the act constituting the offence would constitute a recordable offence or (as the case may be) a qualifying offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted).]]

Textual Amendments

F627S. 63N(5)(6) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 70(11), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 20 (with reg. 6)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F62863ORetention of section 63D material with consentE+W

(1)This section applies to the following material—

(a)fingerprints (other than fingerprints taken under section 61(6A)) to which section 63D applies, and

(b)a DNA profile to which section 63D applies.

(2)If the person to whom the material relates consents to material to which this section applies being retained, the material may be retained for as long as that person consents to it being retained.

(3)Consent given under this section—

(a)must be in writing, and

(b)can be withdrawn at any time.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F629[F63063PRetention of 63D material in connection with different offenceE+W

(1)Subsection (2) applies if—

(a)section 63D material is taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken) from a person in connection with the investigation of an offence, and

(b)the person is subsequently arrested for or charged with a different offence, or convicted of or given a penalty notice for a different offence.

(2)Sections 63E to 63O and sections 63Q and 63T have effect in relation to the material as if the material were also taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, derived from a sample taken)—

(a)in connection with the investigation of the offence mentioned in subsection (1)(b),

(b)on the date on which the person was arrested for that offence (or charged with it or given a penalty notice for it, if the person was not arrested).]]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F63163PARetention of further sets of fingerprintsE+W

(1)This section applies where section 63D material is or includes a person's fingerprints (“the original fingerprints”).

(2)A constable may make a determination under this section in respect of any further fingerprints taken from the same person (“the further fingerprints”) if any of conditions 1 to 3 are met.

(3)Condition 1 is met if—

(a)the further fingerprints are section 63D material, and

(b)the further fingerprints or the original fingerprints were taken in connection with a terrorist investigation.

(4)Condition 2 is met if the further fingerprints were taken from the person in England or Wales under—

(a)paragraph 10 of Schedule 8 to the Terrorism Act 2000,

(b)paragraph 1 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011, F632...

(c)paragraph 34 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019,

[F633(d)paragraph 10 of Schedule 6 to the National Security Act 2023, or

(e)paragraph 1 of Schedule 12 to that Act.]

(5)Condition 3 is met if the further fingerprints—

(a)are material to which section 18 of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 applies, and

(b)are held under the law of England and Wales.

(6)Where a determination under this section is made in respect of the further fingerprints—

(a)the further fingerprints may be retained for as long as the original fingerprints are retained under a power conferred by sections 63E to 63O (including those sections as applied by section 63P), and

(b)a requirement under any enactment to destroy the further fingerprints does not apply for as long as their retention is authorised by paragraph (a).

(7)Subsection (6)(a) does not prevent the further fingerprints being retained after the original fingerprints fall to be destroyed if the continued retention of the further fingerprints is authorised under any enactment.

(8)A written record must be made of a determination under this section.]

Textual Amendments

[F63463QDestruction of copies of section 63D materialE+W

(1)If fingerprints are required by section 63D to be destroyed, any copies of the fingerprints held by the police must also be destroyed.

(2)If a DNA profile is required by that section to be destroyed, no copy may be retained by the police except in a form which does not include information which identifies the person to whom the DNA profile relates.]

Textual Amendments

F634S. 63Q inserted (31.10.2013 for specified purposes, 31.1.2014 in so far as not already in force) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 13, 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, arts. 2(b), 3(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F63563RDestruction of samplesE+W

(1)This section applies to samples—

(a)taken from a person under any power conferred by this Part of this Act, or

(b)taken by the police, with the consent of the person from whom they were taken, in connection with the investigation of an offence by the police.

(2)Samples to which this section applies must be destroyed if it appears to the responsible chief officer of police that—

(a)the taking of the samples was unlawful, or

(b)the samples were taken from a person in connection with that person's arrest and the arrest was unlawful or based on mistaken identity.

(3)Subject to this, the rule in subsection (4) or (as the case may be) (5) applies.

(4)A DNA sample to which this section applies must be destroyed—

(a)as soon as a DNA profile has been derived from the sample, or

(b)if sooner, before the end of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which the sample was taken.

(5)Any other sample to which this section applies must be destroyed before the end of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which it was taken.

(6)The responsible chief officer of police may apply to a District Judge (Magistrates' Courts) for an order to retain a sample to which this section applies beyond the date on which the sample would otherwise be required to be destroyed by virtue of subsection (4) or (5) if—

(a)the sample was taken from a person in connection with the investigation of a qualifying offence, and

(b)the responsible chief officer of police considers that the condition in subsection (7) is met.

(7)The condition is that, having regard to the nature and complexity of other material that is evidence in relation to the offence, the sample is likely to be needed in any proceedings for the offence for the purposes of—

(a)disclosure to, or use by, a defendant, or

(b)responding to any challenge by a defendant in respect of the admissibility of material that is evidence on which the prosecution proposes to rely.

(8)An application under subsection (6) must be made before the date on which the sample would otherwise be required to be destroyed by virtue of subsection (4) or (5).

(9)If, on an application made by the responsible chief officer of police under subsection (6), the District Judge (Magistrates' Courts) is satisfied that the condition in subsection (7) is met, the District Judge may make an order under this subsection which—

(a)allows the sample to be retained for a period of 12 months beginning with the date on which the sample would otherwise be required to be destroyed by virtue of subsection (4) or (5), and

(b)may be renewed (on one or more occasions) for a further period of not more than 12 months from the end of the period when the order would otherwise cease to have effect.

(10)An application for an order under subsection (9) (other than an application for renewal)—

(a)may be made without notice of the application having been given to the person from whom the sample was taken, and

(b)may be heard and determined in private in the absence of that person.

(11)A sample retained by virtue of an order under subsection (9) must not be used other than for the purposes of any proceedings for the offence in connection with which the sample was taken.

(12)A sample that ceases to be retained by virtue of an order under subsection (9) must be destroyed.

(13)Nothing in this section prevents a speculative search, in relation to samples to which this section applies, from being carried out within such time as may reasonably be required for the search if the responsible chief officer of police considers the search to be desirable.]

Textual Amendments

F635S. 63R inserted (31.10.2013 for specified purposes) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 14, 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(c)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F63663SDestruction of impressions of footwearE+W

(1)This section applies to impressions of footwear—

(a)taken from a person under any power conferred by this Part of this Act, or

(b)taken by the police, with the consent of the person from whom they were taken, in connection with the investigation of an offence by the police.

(2)Impressions of footwear to which this section applies must be destroyed unless they are retained under subsection (3).

(3)Impressions of footwear may be retained for as long as is necessary for purposes related to the prevention or detection of crime, the investigation of an offence or the conduct of a prosecution.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F63763TUse of retained materialE+W

(1)Any material to which section 63D, 63R or 63S applies must not be used other than—

(a)in the interests of national security,

(b)for the purposes of a terrorist investigation,

(c)for purposes related to the prevention or detection of crime, the investigation of an offence or the conduct of a prosecution, or

(d)for purposes related to the identification of a deceased person or of the person to whom the material relates.

(2)Material which is required by section 63D, 63R or 63S to be destroyed must not at any time after it is required to be destroyed be used—

(a)in evidence against the person to whom the material relates, or

(b)for the purposes of the investigation of any offence.

(3)In this section—

(a)the reference to using material includes a reference to allowing any check to be made against it and to disclosing it to any person,

(b)the reference to crime includes a reference to any conduct which—

(i)constitutes one or more criminal offences (whether under the law of England and Wales or of any country or territory outside England and Wales), or

(ii)is, or corresponds to, any conduct which, if it all took place in England and Wales, would constitute one or more criminal offences, and

(c)the references to an investigation and to a prosecution include references, respectively, to any investigation outside England and Wales of any crime or suspected crime and to a prosecution brought in respect of any crime in a country or territory outside England and Wales.]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

[F63863UExclusions for certain regimesE+W

(1)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material to which paragraphs 20A to 20J of Schedule 8 to the Terrorism Act 2000 (destruction, retention and use of material taken from terrorist suspects) apply.

(2)Any reference in those sections to a person being arrested for, or charged with, an offence does not include a reference to a person—

(a)being arrested under section 41 of the Terrorism Act 2000, or

(b)being charged with an offence following an arrest under that section.

(3)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material to which paragraph 8 of Schedule 4 to the International Criminal Court Act 2001 (requirement to destroy material) applies.

(4)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material to which paragraph 6 of Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011 (requirement to destroy material) applies.

[F639(4A)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material to which paragraphs 43 to 51 of Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 (destruction, retention and use of material) apply.]

[F640(4B)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material to which—

(a)Part 4 of Schedule 6 to the National Security Act 2023 applies, or

(b)paragraph 6 of Schedule 12 to that Act applies.]

(5)[F641 Sections 63D to 63T ] do not apply to material which is, or may become, disclosable under—

(a)the Criminal Procedure and Investigations Act 1996, or

(b)a code of practice prepared under section 23 of that Act and in operation by virtue of an order under section 25 of that Act.

[F642(5A)A sample that—

(a)falls within subsection (5), and

(b)but for that subsection would be required to be destroyed under section 63R,

must not be used other than for the purposes of any proceedings for the offence in connection with which the sample was taken.

(5B)A sample that once fell within subsection (5) but no longer does, and so becomes a sample to which section 63R applies, must be destroyed immediately if the time specified for its destruction under that section has already passed.]

(6)Sections 63D to 63T do not apply to material which—

(a)is taken from a person, but

(b)relates to another person.

(7)Nothing in sections 63D to 63T affects any power conferred by—

(a)paragraph 18(2) of Schedule 2 to the Immigration Act 1971 (power to take reasonable steps to identify a person detained), or

(b)section 20 of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 (disclosure of police information to the Secretary of State for use for immigration purposes).]

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

F64364 Destruction of fingerprints and samples.E+W

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C483S. 64 applied (with modifications) by S.I. 1985/1882, art. 9

C484S. 64 applied (1.9.2001) by 2001 c. 17, s. 34(1), Sch. 4 para. 8; S.I. 2001/2161, art. 2 (subject to art. 3)

Prospective

[F64464ZADestruction of samplesE+W

(1)A DNA sample to which section 64 applies must be destroyed—

(a)as soon as a DNA profile has been derived from the sample, or

(b)if sooner, before the end of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which the sample was taken.

(2)Any other sample to which section 64 applies must be destroyed before the end of the period of 6 months beginning with the date on which it was taken.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZBDestruction of data given voluntarilyE+W

(1)This section applies to—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken in connection with the investigation of an offence with the consent of the person from whom they were taken, and

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample taken in connection with the investigation of an offence with the consent of the person from whom the sample was taken.

(2)Material to which this section applies must be destroyed as soon as it has fulfilled the purpose for which it was taken or derived, unless it is—

(a)material relating to a person who is convicted of the offence,

(b)material relating to a person who has previously been convicted of a recordable offence, other than a person who has only one exempt conviction,

(c)material in relation to which any of sections 64ZC to 64ZH applies, or

(d)material which is not required to be destroyed by virtue of consent given under section 64ZL.

(3)If material to which this section applies leads to the person to whom the material relates being arrested for or charged with an offence other than the offence under investigation—

(a)the material is not required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, and

(b)sections 64ZD to 64ZH have effect in relation to the material as if the material was taken (or, in the case of a DNA profile, was derived from material taken) in connection with the investigation of the offence in respect of which the person is arrested or charged.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZCDestruction of data relating to a person subject to a control orderE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions or only one exempt conviction, and

(b)is subject to a control order.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints taken from the person, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample taken from the person.

(3)The material must be destroyed before the end of the period of 2 years beginning with the date on which the person ceases to be subject to a control order.

(4)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if the person is convicted—

(a)in England and Wales or Northern Ireland of a recordable offence, or

(b)in Scotland of an offence which is punishable by imprisonment,

before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section.

(5)For the purposes of subsection (1)—

(a)a person has no previous convictions if the person has not previously been convicted—

(i)in England and Wales or Northern Ireland of a recordable offence, or

(ii)in Scotland of an offence which is punishable by imprisonment, and

(b)if the person has been previously convicted of a recordable offence in England and Wales or Northern Ireland, the conviction is exempt if it is in respect of a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence, committed when the person is aged under 18.

(6)For the purposes of that subsection—

(a)a person is to be treated as having been convicted of an offence if—

(i)he has been given a caution in England and Wales or Northern Ireland in respect of the offence which, at the time of the caution, he has admitted, [F645 and ]

F646(ii). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(b)if a person is convicted of more than one offence arising out of a single course of action, those convictions are to be treated as a single conviction.

(7)In this section—

(a)“recordable offence” has, in relation to a conviction in Northern Ireland, the meaning given by Article 2(2) of the Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989, and

(b)“qualifying offence” has, in relation to a conviction in respect of a recordable offence committed in Northern Ireland, the meaning given by Article 53A of that Order.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZDDestruction of data relating to persons not convictedE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions or only one exempt conviction,

(b)is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence, and

(c)is aged 18 or over at the time of the alleged offence.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample so taken.

(3)The material must be destroyed—

(a)in the case of fingerprints or impressions of footwear, before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints or impressions were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(4)But if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge.

(5)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if the person is convicted of a recordable offence before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZEDestruction of data relating to persons under 18 not convicted: recordable offences other than qualifying offencesE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions or only one exempt conviction,

(b)is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence, and

(c)is aged under 18 at the time of the alleged offence.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample so taken.

(3)The material must be destroyed—

(a)in the case of fingerprints or impressions of footwear, before the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints or impressions were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, before the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(4)But if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence—

(a)where the person is aged 18 or over at the time of the alleged offence, the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(b)where—

(i)the alleged offence is not a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(c)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 16 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(d)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged 16 or 17 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(e)where—

(i)the person is convicted of the offence,

(ii)the offence is not a qualifying offence,

(iii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the offence, and

(iv)the person has no previous convictions,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge.

(5)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person—

(a)is convicted of a recordable offence and is aged 18 or over at the time of the offence,

(b)is convicted of a qualifying offence, or

(c)having a previous exempt conviction, is convicted of a recordable offence.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZFDestruction of data relating to persons under 16 not convicted: qualifying offencesE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions or only one exempt conviction,

(b)is arrested for or charged with a qualifying offence, and

(c)is aged under 16 at the time of the alleged offence.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample so taken.

(3)The material must be destroyed—

(a)in the case of fingerprints or impressions of footwear, before the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints or impressions were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, before the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(4)But if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence—

(a)where the person is aged 18 or over at the time of the alleged offence, the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(b)where—

(i)the alleged offence is not a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(c)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 16 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(d)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged 16 or 17 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(e)where—

(i)the person is convicted of the offence,

(ii)the offence is not a qualifying offence,

(iii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the offence, and

(iv)the person has no previous convictions,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge.

(5)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person—

(a)is convicted of a recordable offence and is aged 18 or over at the time of the offence,

(b)is convicted of a qualifying offence, or

(c)having a previous exempt conviction, is convicted of a recordable offence.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZGDestruction of data relating to persons aged 16 or 17 not convicted: qualifying offencesE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions or only one exempt conviction,

(b)is arrested for or charged with a qualifying offence, and

(c)is aged 16 or 17 at the time of the alleged offence.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample so taken.

(3)The material must be destroyed—

(a)in the case of fingerprints or impressions of footwear, before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints or impressions were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, before the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(4)But if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence—

(a)where the person is aged 18 or over at the time of the alleged offence, the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(b)where—

(i)the alleged offence is not a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(c)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged 16 or 17 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(d)where—

(i)the person is convicted of the offence,

(ii)the offence is not a qualifying offence,

(iii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the offence, and

(iv)the person has no previous convictions,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge.

(5)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person—

(a)is convicted of a recordable offence and is aged 18 or over at the time of the offence,

(b)is convicted of a qualifying offence, or

(c)having a previous exempt conviction, is convicted of a recordable offence.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZHDestruction of data relating to persons under 18 convicted of a recordable offence other than a qualifying offenceE+W

(1)This section applies to material falling within subsection (2) relating to a person who—

(a)has no previous convictions,

(b)is convicted of a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence, and

(c)is aged under 18 at the time of the offence.

(2)Material falls within this subsection if it is—

(a)fingerprints or impressions of footwear taken from the person in connection with the investigation of the offence, or

(b)a DNA profile derived from a DNA sample so taken.

(3)The material must be destroyed—

(a)in the case of fingerprints or impressions of footwear, before the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date on which the fingerprints or impressions were taken,

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, before the end of the period of 5 years beginning with the date on which the DNA sample from which the profile was derived was taken (or, if the profile was derived from more than one DNA sample, the date on which the first of those samples was taken).

(4)But if, before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section, the person is arrested for or charged with a recordable offence—

(a)where the person is aged 18 or over at the time of the alleged offence, the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(b)where—

(i)the alleged offence is not a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 18 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(c)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged under 16 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 3 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge,

(d)where—

(i)the alleged offence is a qualifying offence, and

(ii)the person is aged 16 or 17 at the time of the alleged offence,

the material may be further retained until the end of the period of 6 years beginning with the date of the arrest or charge.

(5)This section ceases to have effect in relation to the material if the person is convicted of a further recordable offence before the material is required to be destroyed by virtue of this section.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZISections 64ZB to 64ZH: supplementary provisionE+W

(1)Any reference in section 64ZB or sections 64ZD to 64ZH to a person being charged with an offence includes a reference to a person being informed that he will be reported for an offence.

(2)For the purposes of those sections—

(a)a person has no previous convictions if the person has not previously been convicted of a recordable offence, and

(b)if the person has been previously convicted of a recordable offence, the conviction is exempt if it is in respect of a recordable offence other than a qualifying offence, committed when the person is aged under 18.

(3)For the purposes of those sections, a person is to be treated as having been convicted of an offence if—

(a)he has been given a caution in respect of the offence which, at the time of the caution, he has admitted, or

F647(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(4)If a person is convicted of more than one offence arising out of a single course of action, those convictions are to be treated as a single conviction for the purpose of any provision of those sections relating to an exempt, first or subsequent conviction.

(5)Subject to the completion of any speculative search that the responsible chief officer of police considers necessary or desirable, material falling within any of sections 64ZD to 64ZH must be destroyed immediately if it appears to the chief officer that—

(a)the arrest was unlawful,

(b)the taking of the fingerprints, impressions of footwear or DNA sample concerned was unlawful,

(c)the arrest was based on mistaken identity, or

(d)other circumstances relating to the arrest or the alleged offence mean that it is appropriate to destroy the material.

(6)“Responsible chief officer of police” means the chief officer of police for the police area—

(a)in which the samples, fingerprints or impressions of footwear were taken, or

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, in which the sample from which the DNA profile was derived was taken.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZJDestruction of fingerprints taken under section 61(6A)E+W

Fingerprints taken from a person by virtue of section 61(6A) (taking fingerprints for the purposes of identification) must be destroyed as soon as they have fulfilled the purpose for which they were taken.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZKRetention for purposes of national securityE+W

(1)Subsection (2) applies if the responsible chief officer of police determines that it is necessary for—

(a)a DNA profile to which section 64 applies, or

(b)fingerprints to which section 64 applies, other than fingerprints taken under section 61(6A),

to be retained for the purposes of national security.

(2)Where this subsection applies—

(a)the material is not required to be destroyed in accordance with sections 64ZB to 64ZH, and

(b)section 64ZN(2) does not apply to the material,

for as long as the determination has effect.

(3)A determination under subsection (1) has effect for a maximum of 2 years beginning with the date on which the material would otherwise be required to be destroyed, but a determination may be renewed.

(4)“Responsible chief officer of police” means the chief officer of police for the police area—

(a)in which the fingerprints were taken, or

(b)in the case of a DNA profile, in which the sample from which the DNA profile was derived was taken.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZLRetention with consentE+W

(1)If a person consents in writing to the retention of fingerprints, impressions of footwear or a DNA profile to which section 64 applies, other than fingerprints taken under section 61(6A)—

(a)the material is not required to be destroyed in accordance with sections 64ZB to 64ZH, and

(b)section 64ZN(2) does not apply to the material.

(2)It is immaterial for the purposes of subsection (1) whether the consent is given at, before or after the time when the entitlement to the destruction of the material arises.

(3)Consent given under this section can be withdrawn at any time.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZMDestruction of copies, and notification of destructionE+W

(1)If fingerprints or impressions of footwear are required to be destroyed by virtue of any of sections 64ZB to 64ZJ, any copies of the fingerprints or impressions of footwear must also be destroyed.

(2)If a DNA profile is required to be destroyed by virtue of any of those sections, no copy may be kept except in a form which does not include information which identifies the person to whom the DNA profile relates.

(3)If a person makes a request to the responsible chief officer of police to be notified when anything relating to the person is destroyed under any of sections 64ZA to 64ZJ, the responsible chief officer of police or a person authorised by the chief officer or on the chief officer's behalf must within three months of the request issue the person with a certificate recording the destruction.

(4)“Responsible chief officer of police” means the chief officer of police for the police area—

(a)in which the samples, fingerprints or impressions of footwear which have been destroyed were taken, or

(b)in the case of a DNA profile which has been destroyed, in which the samples from which the DNA profile was derived were taken.

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

Prospective

64ZNUse of retained materialE+W

(1)Any material to which section 64 applies which is retained after it has fulfilled the purpose for which it was taken or derived must not be used other than—

(a)in the interests of national security,

(b)for the purposes of a terrorist investigation,

(c)for purposes related to the prevention or detection of crime, the investigation of an offence or the conduct of a prosecution, or

(d)for purposes related to the identification of a deceased person or of the person to whom the material relates.

(2)Material which is required to be destroyed by virtue of any of sections 64ZA to 64ZJ, or of section 64ZM, must not at any time after it is required to be destroyed be used—

(a)in evidence against the person to whom the material relates, or

(b)for the purposes of the investigation of any offence.

(3)In this section—

(a)the reference to using material includes a reference to allowing any check to be made against it and to disclosing it to any person,

(b)the reference to crime includes a reference to any conduct which—

(i)constitutes one or more criminal offences (whether under the law of a part of the United Kingdom or of a country or territory outside the United Kingdom), or

(ii)is, or corresponds to, any conduct which, if it all took place in any one part of the United Kingdom, would constitute one or more criminal offences, and

(c)the references to an investigation and to a prosecution include references, respectively, to any investigation outside the United Kingdom of any crime or suspected crime and to a prosecution brought in respect of any crime in a country or territory outside the United Kingdom.]

Textual Amendments

F644Ss. 64ZA-64ZN inserted (prosp.) by Crime and Security Act 2010 (c. 17), ss. 14(2), 59

[F64864A Photographing of suspects etc.E+W

(1)A person who is detained at a police station may be photographed—

(a)with the appropriate consent; or

(b)if the appropriate consent is withheld or it is not practicable to obtain it, without it.

[F649(1A)A person falling within subsection (1B) below may, on the occasion of the relevant event referred to in subsection (1B), be photographed elsewhere than at a police station—

(a)with the appropriate consent; or

(b)if the appropriate consent is withheld or it is not practicable to obtain it, without it.

(1B)A person falls within this subsection if he has been—

(a)arrested by a constable for an offence;

(b)taken into custody by a constable after being arrested for an offence by a person other than a constable;

(c)made subject to a requirement to wait [F650with a community support officer or a community support volunteer under paragraph 7 of Schedule 3B] to the Police Reform Act 2002 (“the 2002 Act”);]

[F651(ca)given a direction by a constable under section 35 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014;]

(d)given a penalty notice by a constable F652... under Chapter 1 of Part 1 of the Criminal Justice and Police Act 2001, a penalty notice by a constable under section 444A of the Education Act 1996, or a fixed penalty notice by a constable in uniform under section 54 of the Road Traffic Offenders Act 1988;

[F653(e)given a fixed penalty notice by a community support officer or community support volunteer who is authorised to give the notice by virtue of his or her designation under section 38 of the Police Reform Act 2002;]

(f)given a notice in relation to a relevant fixed penalty offence (within the meaning of paragraph 1 of Schedule 5 to the 2002 Act) by an accredited person by virtue of accreditation specifying that that paragraph applies to him.[F654; or

(g)given a notice in relation to a relevant fixed penalty offence (within the meaning of Schedule 5A to the 2002 Act) by an accredited inspector by virtue of accreditation specifying that paragraph 1 of Schedule 5A to the 2002 Act applies to him.]

[F655(1C)A person to whom subsection (1) or (1A) does not apply may be photographed at a police station without the appropriate consent if that person falls within subsection (1D), (1F) or (1H).

(1D)A person falls within this subsection if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection) that person has been—

(a)arrested for a recordable offence and released,

(b)charged with a recordable offence, or

(c)informed that they will be reported for such an offence,

and either of the conditions in subsection (1E) is met in relation to that person.

(1E)The conditions referred to in subsection (1D) are—

(a)that the person has not been photographed in the course of the investigation of the offence by the police, or

(b)that the person has been so photographed but—

(i)any photograph taken on such a previous occasion is unavailable or inadequate, and

(ii)a constable considers that taking a further photograph is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.

(1F)A person falls within this subsection if (before or after the coming into force of this subsection) that person has been—

(a)convicted of a recordable offence, or

(b)given a caution in respect of a recordable offence which, at the time of the caution they have admitted,

and either of the conditions in subsection (1G) is met in relation to that person.

(1G)The conditions referred to in subsection (1F) are—

(a)that the person has not been photographed since being convicted or cautioned, or

(b)that the person has been so photographed but—

(i)any photograph taken on such a previous occasion is unavailable or inadequate, and

(ii)a constable considers that taking a further photograph is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.

(1H)A person falls within this subsection if—

(a)under the law in force in a country or territory outside England and Wales the person has been convicted of an offence under that law (whether before or after the coming into force of this subsection and whether or not they have been punished for it),

(b)the act constituting the offence would constitute a qualifying offence if done in England and Wales (whether or not it constituted such an offence when the person was convicted), and

(c)either of the conditions in subsection (1I) is met in relation to that person.

(1I)The conditions referred to in subsection (1H) are—

(a)that the person has not been photographed on a previous occasion by virtue of being a person falling within subsection (1H), or

(b)that the person has been so photographed but—

(i)any photograph taken on such a previous occasion is unavailable or inadequate, and

(ii)a constable considers that taking a further photograph is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.

(1J)A person who falls within subsection (1F) or (1H) may be photographed under subsection (1C) only with the authorisation of an officer of at least the rank of inspector.

(1K)An officer may only give an authorisation under subsection (1J) if the officer is satisfied that taking the photograph is necessary to assist in the prevention or detection of crime.

(1L)In subsections (1E), (1G) and (1I)—

(a)references to a photograph being unavailable include references to a photograph being lost or destroyed, and

(b)references to a photograph being inadequate include references to a photograph being—

(i)unclear,

(ii)an incomplete photograph of the subject, or

(iii)no longer an accurate representation of the subject’s appearance.

(1M)In subsections (1E), (1G), (1I) and (1K) references to crime include references to any conduct which—

(a)constitutes one or more criminal offences (whether under the law of a part of the United Kingdom or of a country or territory outside the United Kingdom), or

(b)is, or corresponds to, any conduct which, if it all took place in any one part of the United Kingdom, would constitute one or more criminal offences.]

(2)A person proposing to take a photograph of any person under this section—

(a)may, for the purpose of doing so, require the removal of any item or substance worn on or over the whole or any part of the head or face of the person to be photographed; and

(b)if the requirement is not complied with, may remove the item or substance himself.

(3)Where a photograph may be taken under this section, the only persons entitled to take the photograph are [F656constables].

(4)A photograph taken under this section—

(a)may be used by, or disclosed to, any person for any purpose related to the prevention or detection of crime, the investigation of an offence or the conduct of a prosecution [F657or to the enforcement of a sentence]; and

(b)after being so used or disclosed, may be retained but may not be used or disclosed except for a purpose so related.

(5)In subsection (4)—

(a)the reference to crime includes a reference to any conduct which—

(i)constitutes one or more criminal offences (whether under the law of a part of the United Kingdom or of a country or territory outside the United Kingdom); or

(ii)is, or corresponds to, any conduct which, if it all took place in any one part of the United Kingdom, would constitute one or more criminal offences;

and

(b)the references to an investigation and to a prosecution include references, respectively, to any investigation outside the United Kingdom of any crime or suspected crime and to a prosecution brought in respect of any crime in a country or territory outside the United Kingdom.[F658; and

(c)“sentence” includes any order made by a court in England and Wales when dealing with an offender in respect of his offence.]

(6)References in this section to taking a photograph include references to using any process by means of which a visual image may be produced; and references to photographing a person shall be construed accordingly.

[F659(6A)In this section, a “photograph” includes a moving image, and corresponding expressions shall be construed accordingly.]

[F660(7)Nothing in this section applies to a person arrested under an extradition arrest power.]]

Textual Amendments

F648 S. 64A inserted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c. 24, s. 92

F650Words in s. 64A(1B)(c) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 15.12.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 12 para. 7(3)(a); S.I. 2017/1139, reg. 2(k) (as amended by S.I. 2017/1162, reg. 2)

F653S. 64A(1B)(e) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 15.12.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 12 para. 7(3)(b); S.I. 2017/1139, reg. 2(k) (as amended by S.I. 2017/1162, reg. 2)

F654S. 64A(1B)(g) and preceding word inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 52, 53, Sch. 14 para. 11; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(o)(p) (subject to arts. 6, 7)

F658S. 64A(5)(c) and preceding word inserted (1.8.2005) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 116(4), 178; S.I. 2005/2026, art. 2(c)

F660S. 64A(7) inserted (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 169(5), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C489S. 64A(1B)(f) modified (27.1.2010) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), Sch. 5 para. 1(3A) (as inserted by Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007 (c. 28), s. 133(3)(a); S.I. 2010/112, art. 2(e)

65 Part V—supplementary.E+W

[F661(1)]In this Part of this Act—

  • [F662 “analysis”, in relation to a skin impression, includes comparison and matching;]

  • “appropriate consent” means—

    (a)

    in relation to a person who [F663has attained the age of 18 years], the consent of that person;

    (b)

    in relation to a person who has not attained that age but has attained the age of 14 years, the consent of that person and his parent or guardian; and

    (c)

    in relation to a person who has not attained the age of 14 years, the consent of his parent or guardian;

  • [F664“DNA profile” means any information derived from a DNA sample;

  • “DNA sample” means any material that has come from a human body and consists of or includes human cells;]

  • [F665 “extradition arrest power” means any of the following—

    (a)

    a Part 1 warrant (within the meaning given by the Extradition Act 2003) in respect of which a certificate under section 2 of that Act has been issued;

    (b)

    section 5 of that Act;

    (c)

    a warrant issued under section 71 of that Act;

    (d)

    a provisional warrant (within the meaning given by that Act).

    (e)

    [F666section 74A of that Act;]]

  • F667...

  • [F668“fingerprints”, in relation to any person, means a record (in any form and produced by any method) of the skin pattern and other physical characteristics or features of—

    (a)

    any of that person’s fingers; or

    (b)

    either of his palms;]

  • [F669“intimate sample” means—

    (a)

    a sample of blood, semen or any other tissue fluid, urine or pubic hair;

    (b)

    a dental impression;

    (c)

    [F670a swab taken from any part of a person's genitals (including pubic hair) or from a person's body orifice other than the mouth;]]

  • [F671“intimate search” means a search which consists of the physical examination of a person’s body orifices other than the mouth;]

  • [F672“non-intimate sample” means—

    (a)

    a sample of hair other than pubic hair;

    (b)

    a sample taken from a nail or from under a nail;

    (c)

    [F673a swab taken from any part of a person's body other than a part from which a swab taken would be an intimate sample;]

    (d)

    saliva;

    (e)

    [F674a skin impression;]]

  • [F675“offence”, in relation to any country or territory outside England and Wales, includes an act punishable under the law of that country or territory, however it is described;]

  • [F676“registered dentist” has the same meaning as in the M42Dentists Act 1984;

  • [F677“registered health care professional” means a person (other than a medical practitioner) who is—

    (a)

    a registered nurse; or

    (b)

    a registered member of a health care profession which is designated for the purposes of this paragraph by an order made by the Secretary of State;]

  • [F678“the responsible chief officer of police”, in relation to material to which section 63D or 63R applies, means the chief officer of police for the police area—

    (a)

    in which the material concerned was taken, or

    (b)

    in the case of a DNA profile, in which the sample from which the DNA profile was derived was taken;

  • “section 63D material” means fingerprints or DNA profiles to which section 63D applies;]

  • [F679“skin impression”, in relation to any person, means any record (other than a fingerprint) which is a record “ in any form and produced by any method) of the skin pattern and other physical characteristics or features of the whole or any part of his foot or of any other part of his body;]

  • “speculative search”, in relation to a person’s fingerprints or samples, means such a check against other fingerprints or samples or against information derived from other samples as is referred to in section 63A(1) above;

  • “sufficient” and “insufficient”, in relation to a sample, means [F680(subject to subsection (2) below)] sufficient or insufficient (in point of quantity or quality) for the purpose of enabling information to be produced by the means of analysis used or to be used in relation to the sample];

  • [F681“the terrorism provisions” means [F682sections 41 and 43B] of the Terrorism Act 2000, and any provision of Schedule 7 to that Act conferring a power of detention; and

  • “terrorism” has the meaning given in section 1 of that Act];

  • [F683“terrorist investigation” has the meaning given by section 32 of that Act;]

  • F684... F685...

[F686(1A)A health care profession is any profession mentioned in section 60(2) of the Health Act 1999 (c. 8) other than the profession of practising medicine and the profession of nursing.

(1B)An order under subsection (1) shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

[F687(2)References in this Part of this Act to a sample’s proving insufficient include references to where, as a consequence of—

(a)the loss, destruction or contamination of the whole or any part of the sample,

(b)any damage to the whole or a part of the sample, or

(c)the use of the whole or a part of the sample for an analysis which produced no results or which produced results some or all of which must be regarded, in the circumstances, as unreliable,

the sample has become unavailable or insufficient for the purpose of enabling information, or information of a particular description, to be obtained by means of analysis of the sample.]

[F688(2A)In subsection (2), the reference to the destruction of a sample does not include a reference to the destruction of a sample under section 63R (requirement to destroy samples).

(2B)Any reference in sections 63F, 63H, 63P or 63U to a person being charged with an offence includes a reference to a person being informed that the person will be reported for an offence.]

[F689(3)For the purposes of this Part, a person has in particular been convicted of an offence under the law of a country or territory outside England and Wales if—

(a)a court exercising jurisdiction under the law of that country or territory has made in respect of such an offence a finding equivalent to a finding that the person is not guilty by reason of insanity; or

(b)such a court has made in respect of such an offence a finding equivalent to a finding that the person is under a disability and did the act charged against him in respect of the offence.]

Textual Amendments

F662Words in s. 65(1) inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(5)(a); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F663Words in s. 65(1) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 73(4), 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 22

F664Words in s. 65(1) inserted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 18(2)(a), 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(d)

F665S. 65: definition of "extradition arrest power" inserted (1.1.2004) by Extradition Act 2003 (c. 41), ss. 169(6), 221; S.I. 2003/3103, art. 2 (subject to savings in Order (as amended by S.I. 2003/3312, art. 2(2) and S.I. 2003/3258, art. 2(2)))

F667S. 65(1): definitions of "drug trafficking" and "drug trafficking offence" repealed (24.3.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 457, 458(1)(3), Sch. 12; S.I. 2003/333, art. 2(1), Sch. (as amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4)

F668S. 65(1): definition of "fingerprints" substituted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 78(8): S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(a)

F669Definition of “intimate sample” in s. 65 substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 58(2); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F670S. 65(1): words in the definition of "intimate sample" substituted (1.7.2005) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 119(2), 178; S.I. 2005/1521, art. 3(1)(g)

F671Definition of “intimate search” in s. 65 inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 59(1); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F672Definition of “non-intimate sample” substituted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 58(3); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F673S. 65(1): words in the definition of "non-intimate sample" substituted (1.7.2005) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 119(3), 178; S.I. 2005/1521, art. 3(1)(g)

F674S. 65(1): words in the definition of "non-intimate sample" substituted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(5)(b); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F676Definitions of “registered dentist”, “speculative search” and “sufficient” and “insufficient” in s. 65 inserted (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 58(4); S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch.

F677Definition of "registered health care professional" in s. 65 inserted (1.10.2002 for specified purposes otherwise 1.4.2003.) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. {54(2)}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 4(d); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(e)

F678Words in s. 65(1) inserted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 18(2)(b), 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(d)

F679S. 65(1): definition of "skin impression" inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(5)(c); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F680S. 65(1): words in definition of "sufficient" and "insufficient" inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(5)(d); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F681Definitions of “ the terrorism provisions” and “ terrorism” in s. 65 substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125, Sch. 15 para. 5(10) (with s 129(1)); S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

F683Words in s. 65(1) inserted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 18(2)(c), 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(d)

F685Words in s. 65(1) repealed (24.3.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 457, 458(1)(3), Sch. 12; S.I. 2003/333, art. 2(1), Sch. (as amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3, 4)

F686S. 65(1A)(1B) inserted (1.10.2002 for specified purposes otherwise 1.4.2003) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 54(3), 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 4(d); S.I. 2003/808, art. 2(e)

F687S. 65(2) inserted (1.1.2003) by 2001 c. 16, s. 80(6); S.I. 2002/3032, art. 2(b)

F688S. 65(2A)(2B) inserted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 18(3), 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C490S. 65 applied with modifications: by S.I. 1985/1882, art. 10; (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 65 applied (with modifications) (31.12.2006) by The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (Application to the Armed Forces) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2015), arts. 2, 3, Schs. 1-3

C492S. 65(2A) modified (12.2.2019 for specified purposes, 13.8.2020 for specified purposes) by Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 (c. 3), s. 27(1)(g), Sch. 3 para. 36(2) (with s. 25(9)); S.I. 2020/792, reg. 2(g)

Marginal Citations

[F69065A “Qualifying offence”E+W

(1) In this Part, “qualifying offence” means—

(a)an offence specified in subsection (2) below, or

(b)an ancillary offence relating to such an offence.

(2)The offences referred to in subsection (1)(a) above are—

(a)murder;

(b)manslaughter;

(c)false imprisonment;

(d)kidnapping;

[F691(da)an offence of indecent exposure;

(db)an offence under section 4 of the Vagrancy Act 1824, committed by a person by wilfully, openly, lewdly, and obscenely exposing his person with intent to insult any female;

(dc)an offence under section 28 of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847, committed by a person by wilfully and indecently exposing his person;]

(e)an offence under section 4, 16, 18, 20 to 24 or 47 of the Offences Against the Person Act 1861;

(f)an offence under section 2 or 3 of the Explosive Substances Act 1883;

[F692(fa)an offence under section 1 of the Infant Life (Preservation) Act 1929;]

(g)an offence under section 1 of the Children and Young Persons Act 1933;

[F693(ga)an offence under section 1 of the Infanticide Act 1938;

(gb)an offence under section 12 or 13 of the Sexual Offences Act 1956, other than an offence committed by a person where the other person involved in the conduct constituting the offence consented to it and was aged 16 or over;

(gc)an offence under any other section of that Act, other than sections 18 and 32;

(gd)an offence under section 128 of the Mental Health Act 1959;

(ge)an offence under section 1 of the Indecency with Children Act 1960;]

(h)an offence under section 4(1) of the Criminal Law Act 1967 committed in relation to murder;

[F694(ha)an offence under section 5 of the Sexual Offences Act 1967;]

(i)an offence under sections 16 to 18 of the Firearms Act 1968;

(j)an offence under [F695 section 8, 9 ] or 10 of the Theft Act 1968 or an offence under section 12A of that Act involving an accident which caused a person's death;

[F696(ja)an offence under section 1(1) of the Genocide Act 1969;]

(k)an offence under section 1 of the Criminal Damage Act 1971 required to be charged as arson;

[F697(ka)an offence under section 54 of the Criminal Law Act 1977;]

(l)an offence under section 1 of the Protection of Children Act 1978;

(m)an offence under section 1 of the Aviation Security Act 1982;

(n)an offence under section 2 of the Child Abduction Act 1984;

[F698(na)an offence under section 1 of the Prohibition of Female Circumcision Act 1985;

(nb)an offence under section 1 of the Public Order Act 1986;]

(o)an offence under section 9 of the Aviation and Maritime Security Act 1990;

[F699(oa)an offence under section 3 of the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Act 2000;

(ob)an offence under section 51 of the International Criminal Court Act 2001;

(oc)an offence under section 1, 2 or 3 of the Female Genital Mutilation Act 2003;]

(p)an offence under any of sections 1 to 19, 25, 26, 30 to 41, 47 to 50, 52, 53, 57 to [F700 59A ] , 61 to [F70166A, 66B(2) and (3),] 67, 69 and 70 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003;

(q)an offence under section 5 of the Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004;

(r)an offence for the time being listed in section 41(1) of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008;

[F702(ra)an offence under section 75A of the Serious Crime Act 2015 (strangulation or suffocation)];

[F703(s)an offence under section 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (human trafficking)];

[F704(t)an offence under paragraph 1 of Schedule 4 to the Space Industry Act 2018];

[F705(u)an offence under any of sections 136 to 138 and 148 to 150 of the Health and Care Act 2022 (offences relating to virginity testing and hymenoplasty).]

[F706(v)an offence under section 18 of the National Security Act 2023 or for the time being listed in section 33(3)(a) of that Act.]

(3)The Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument amend subsection (2) above.

(4)A statutory instrument containing an order under subsection (3) above shall not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before, and approved by resolution of, each House of Parliament.

(5) In subsection (1)(b) above “ancillary offence”, in relation to an offence, means—

(a)aiding, abetting, counselling or procuring the commission of the offence;

(b)an offence under Part 2 of the Serious Crime Act 2007 (encouraging or assisting crime) in relation to the offence (including, in relation to times before the commencement of that Part, an offence of incitement);

(c)attempting or conspiring to commit the offence.]

Textual Amendments

F695Words in s. 65A(2)(j) substituted (31.10.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), ss. 18(4), 120 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/1814, art. 2(d)

F700Word in s. 65A(2)(p) substituted (6.4.2013) by Protection of Freedoms Act 2012 (c. 9), s. 120, Sch. 9 para. 137 (with s. 97); S.I. 2013/470, art. 2(d) (with arts. 5-8)

[F70765BPersons convicted of an offence”E+W

(1)For the purposes of this Part, any reference to a person who is convicted of an offence includes a reference to—

(a)a person who has been given a caution in respect of the offence which, at the time of the caution, the person has admitted,

(b)a person who has been warned or reprimanded under section 65 of the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 for the offence,

(c)a person who has been found not guilty of the offence by reason of insanity, or

(d)a person who has been found to be under a disability and to have done the act charged in respect of the offence.

(2)This Part, so far as it relates to persons convicted of an offence, has effect despite anything in the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

(3)But a person is not to be treated as having been convicted of an offence if that conviction is a disregarded conviction or caution by virtue of section 92 of the Protection of Freedoms Act 2012.

(4)If a person is convicted of more than one offence arising out of a single course of action, those convictions are to be treated as a single conviction for the purposes of calculating under sections 63F, 63H and 63N whether the person has been convicted of only one offence.

(5)See also section 65(3) (which deals with findings equivalent to those mentioned in subsection (1)(c) or (d) by courts which exercise jurisdiction under the laws of countries or territories outside England and Wales).]

Textual Amendments

Part VIE+W Codes of Practice—General

66 Codes of practice.E+W

The Secretary of State shall issue codes of practice in connection with—

(a)the exercise by police officers of statutory powers—

(i)to search a person without first arresting him; F708. . .

(ii)to search a vehicle without making an arrest;[F709 or

(iii)to arrest a person;]

(b)the detention, treatment, questioning and identification of persons by police officers;

(c)searches of premises by police officers; and

(d)the seizure of property found by police officers on persons or premises.

[F710(2)Codes shall (in particular) include provision in connection with the exercise by police officers of powers under section 63B above.]

[F711(3)Nothing in this section requires the Secretary of State to issue a code of practice in relation to any matter falling within the code of practice issued under section 47AB(2) of the Terrorism Act 2000 (as that code is altered or replaced from time to time) (code of practice in relation to terrorism powers to search persons and vehicles and to stop and search in specified locations).]

Textual Amendments

F708S. 66: "in subsection (1)(a)" word at the end of sub-paragraph (i) repealed (1.1.2006) by virtue of Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 110(3)(a), 178, Sch. 17 Pt. 2; S.I. 2005/3495, art. 2(1)(m)(t)(u)(xxiv)

F709S. 66: "in subsection (1)(a)" sub-paragraph (ii) and word inserted (1.1.2006) by virtue of Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), ss. 110(3)(b), 178; S.I. 2005/3495, art. 2(1)(m)

F710S. 66(2) inserted "at the end of s. 66" (for certain purposes on 20.6.2001, 2.7.2001, 20.5.2002, 2.9.2002, 1.4.2003, 1.4.2004, 1.4.2005 and otherwise 1.12.2005) by virtue of 2000 c. 43, ss. 57(3)(a), 80(1); S.I. 2001/2232, art. 2(f); S.I. 2002/1149, art. 2; S.I. 2002/1862, art. 2; S.I. 2003/709, art. 2; S.I. 2004/780, art. 2; S.I. 2005/596, art. 2; S.I. 2005/3054, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

67 Codes of practice—supplementary.E+W

[F712(1) In this section, “ code ” means a code of practice under section 60, 60A or 66.

(2)The Secretary of State may at any time revise the whole or any part of a code.

(3)A code may be made, or revised, so as to—

(a)apply only in relation to one or more specified areas,

(b)have effect only for a specified period,

(c)apply only in relation to specified offences or descriptions of offender.

(4)Before issuing a code, or any revision of a code, the Secretary of State must consult—

(a)[F713such persons as appear to the Secretary of State to represent the views of police and crime commissioners,

(aa)the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime,

(ab)the Common Council of the City of London,]

(b)[F714the National Police Chiefs’ Council],

(c)the General Council of the Bar,

(d)the Law Society of England and Wales,

(e)the Institute of Legal Executives, and

(f)such other persons as he thinks fit.

[F715(4A)The duty to consult under subsection (4) does not apply to a revision of a code where the Secretary of State considers that—

(a)the revision is necessary in consequence of legislation, and

(b)the Secretary of State has no discretion as to the nature of the revision.

(4B)Where, in consequence of subsection (4A), a revision of a code is issued without prior consultation with the persons mentioned in subsection (4), the Secretary of State must (at the same time as issuing the revision) publish a statement that, in his or her opinion, paragraphs (a) and (b) of subsection (4A) apply to the revision.

(4C)In subsection (4A), “legislation” means any provision of—

(a)an Act,

(b)subordinate legislation within the meaning of the Interpretation Act 1978.]

(5)A code, or a revision of a code, does not come into operation until the Secretary of State by order so provides.

(6)The power conferred by subsection (5) is exercisable by statutory instrument.

(7)An order bringing a code into operation may not be made unless a draft of the order has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.

(7A)An order bringing a revision of a code into operation must be laid before Parliament if the order has been made without a draft having been so laid and approved by a resolution of each House.

(7B)When an order or draft of an order is laid, the code or revision of a code to which it relates must also be laid.

(7C)No order or draft of an order may be laid until the consultation required by subsection (4) has taken place.

(7D)An order bringing a code, or a revision of a code, into operation may include transitional or saving provisions.]

F716(8). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(9)Persons other than police officers who are charged with the duty of investigating offences or charging offenders shall in the discharge of that duty have regard to any relevant provision of F717. . . a code.

[F718(9A)Persons on whom powers are conferred by—

(a)any designation under section 38 or 39 of the Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30) (police powers for [F719civilian staff] [F720and volunteers]), or

(b)any accreditation under section 41 of that Act (accreditation under community safety accreditation schemes),

F721shall have regard to any relevant provision of a code . . . in the exercise or performance of the powers and duties conferred or imposed on them by that designation or accreditation.]

(10)A failure on the part—

(a)of a police officer to comply with any provision of F722. . . a code; F723. . .

(b)of any person other than a police officer who is charged with the duty of investigating offences or charging offenders to have regard to any relevant provision of F724. . . a code in the discharge of that duty, [F725, or

(c)of a person designated under section 38 or 39 or accredited under section 41 of the Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30) to have regard to any relevant provision of F726. . . a code in the exercise or performance of the powers and duties conferred or imposed on him by that designation or accreditation,]

shall not of itself render him liable to any criminal or civil proceedings.

(11)In all criminal and civil proceedings any F727. . . code shall be admissible in evidence; and if any provision of F727. . . a code appears to the court or tribunal conducting the proceedings to be relevant to any question arising in the proceedings it shall be taken into account in determining that question.

[F728(12) In subsection (11) “ criminal proceedings ” includes service proceedings.

(13) In this section “ service proceedings ” means proceedings before a court (other than a civilian court) in respect of a service offence; and “service offence” and “civilian court” here have the same meanings as in the Armed Forces Act 2006. ]

Textual Amendments

F712S. 67(1)-(7D) substituted (20.1.2004) for s. 67(1)-(7C) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 11(1), 336; S.I. 2004/81, art. 2(1)(2)(a)

F714Words in s. 67(4)(b) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 14 paras. 4, 5(a); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 41

F715S. 67(4A)-(4C) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 3.4.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 78, 183(1)(5)(e); S.I. 2017/399, reg. 2, Sch. para. 26

F716S. 67(8) repealed (1.4.1999) by 1996 c. 16, s. 103(3), Sch. 9 Pt. II; S.I. 1999/533, art. 2(a)

F720Words in s. 67(9A)(a) inserted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 15.12.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), s. 183(1)(5)(e), Sch. 12 para. 7(4); S.I. 2017/1139, reg. 2(k) (as amended by S.I. 2017/1162, reg. 2)

F723S. 67(10): the word "or" after paragraph (a) repealed (2.12.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), s. 107, Sch. 8; S.I. 2002/2750, art. 2(b)(iii)(b)

F725S. 67(10)(c) and preceding word "or" inserted (2.12.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), s. 107, Sch. 7 para. 9(8); S.I. 2002/2750, art. 2(b)(ii)

F728S. 67(12)(13) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for s. 67(12) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 101; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C499S. 67(9) excluded (12.4.2010) by 2002 c. 29 s. 377ZB (as inserted by The Northern Ireland Act 1998 (Devolution of Policing and Justice Functions) Order 2010) (S.I. 2010/976), arts. 1(2), 12, {Sch. 14 para. 68}; S.I. 2010/977, art. 1(2)

C500S. 67(9) excluded (24.2.2003) by Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (c. 29), ss. 377(9)(a), 458; S.I. 2003/120, art. 2, Sch. (subject to transitional provisions and savings in arts. 3-7 (as amended by S.I. 2003/333, art. 14 which in turn is amended by S.I. 2003/531, arts. 3 and 4))

Part VIIU.K. Documentary Evidence in Criminal Proceedings

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

68. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . F729U.K.

Textual Amendments

F73069. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F73170. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.K.

Textual Amendments

71 Microfilm copies.U.K.

In any proceedings the contents of a document may (whether or not the document is still in existence) be proved by the production of an enlargement of a microfilm copy of that document or of the material part of it, authenticated in such manner as the court may approve.

[F732F733... concerned are proceedings before a magistrates’ court inquiring into an offence as examining justices this section shall have effect with the omission of the words “authenticated in such manner as the court may approve.”]

Extent Information

E1S. 71 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F732Words at the end of s. 71 inserted (4.7.1996 with effect as mentioned in Sch. 1 Pt. III para. 39 and S.I. 1997/683, art. 1(2)) by 1996 c. 25, s. 47, Sch. 1 Pt. II para.24 (with s. 78(1))

F733Words in s. 71 repealed (18.6.2012 for specified purposes, 5.11.2012 for specified purposes, 28.5.2013 for specified purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 3 para. 56(3), Sch. 37 Pt. 4; S.I. 2012/1320, art. 4(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with art. 5) (see S.I. 2012/2574, art. 4(2) and S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2012/2574, art. 2(2)(3)(c)(d), Sch. (with arts. 3 4) (as amended (4.11.2012) by S.I. 2012/2761, art. 2) (with S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2013/1103, art. 2(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with arts. 3 4)

72 Part VII—supplementary.U.K.

(1)In this Part of this Act—

  • [F734“copy”, in relation to a document, means anything onto which information recorded in the document has been copied, by whatever means and whether directly or indirectly, and “statement” means any representation of fact, however made; and]

  • “proceedings” means criminal proceedings, including[F735 service proceedings.]

[F736(1A)In subsection (1) “service proceedings” means proceedings before a court (other than a civilian court) in respect of a service offence; and “service offence” and “civilian court” here have the same meanings as in the Armed Forces Act 2006.]

(2)Nothing in this Part of this Act shall prejudice any power of a court to exclude evidence (whether by preventing questions from being put or otherwise) at its discretion.

Extent Information

E2S. 72 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F734Definitions of "copy" and "statement" in s. 72(1) substituted (31.1.1997) by 1995 c. 38, s. 15(1), Sch. 1 para. 9(2) (with ss. 1(3), 6(4)(5), 14); S.I. 1996/3217, art. 2

F735S. 72(1): words in definition of "proceedings" substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for paras. (a)-(c) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 102(2); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F736S. 72(1A) inserted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 102(3); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

Part VIIIU.K. Evidence in Criminal Proceedings—General

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Convictions and acquittalsU.K.

73 Proof of convictions and acquittals.U.K.

(1)Where in any proceedings the fact that a person has in the United Kingdom F737... been convicted or acquitted of an offence otherwise than by a Service court is admissible in evidence, it may be proved by producing a certificate of conviction or, as the case may be, of acquittal relating to that offence, and proving that the person named in the certificate as having been convicted or acquitted of the offence is the person whose conviction or acquittal of the offence is to be proved.

(2)For the purposes of this section a certificate of conviction or of acquittal—

(a)shall, as regards a conviction or acquittal on indictment, consist of a certificate, signed by the [F738proper officer] of the court where the conviction or acquittal took place, giving the substance and effect (omitting the formal parts) of the indictment and of the conviction or acquittal; and

(b)shall, as regards a conviction or acquittal on a summary trial, consist of a copy of the conviction or of the dismissal of the information, signed by the [F738proper officer] of the court where the conviction or acquittal took place or by the [F738proper officer] of the court, if any, to which a memorandum of the conviction or acquittal was sent; F739...

F739(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

and a document purporting to be a duly signed certificate of conviction or acquittal under this section shall be taken to be such a certificate unless the contrary is proved.

[F740(3)In subsection (2) above “proper officer” means—

(a)in relation to a magistrates’ court in England and Wales, the [F741designated officer] for the court; and

(b)in relation to any other court F742..., the clerk of the court, his deputy or any other person having custody of the court record, F743...

F743(c). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .]

(4)The method of proving a conviction or acquittal authorised by this section shall be in addition to and not to the exclusion of any other authorised manner of proving a conviction or acquittal.

Extent Information

E3S. 73 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F738Words in s. 73(2)(a)(b) substituted (1.4.2001) by 1999 c. 22, s. 90, Sch. 13 para. 128(1)(2) (with Sch. 14 para. 7(2)); S.I. 2001/916, art. 2

F741Words in s. 73(3)(a) substituted (1.4.2005) by Courts Act 2003 (c. 39), ss. 109(1), 110, Sch. 8 para. 285; S.I. 2005/910, art. 3(y)

74 Conviction as evidence of commission of offence.U.K.

(1)In any proceedings the fact that a person other than the accused has been convicted of an offence by or before any court in the United Kingdom F744... or by a Service court outside the United Kingdom shall be admissible in evidence for the purpose of proving, [F745that that person committed that offence, where evidence of his having done so is admissible], whether or not any other evidence of his having committed that offence is given.

(2)In any proceedings in which by virtue of this section a person other than the accused is proved to have been convicted of an offence by or before any court in the United Kingdom F746... or by a Service court outside the United Kingdom, he shall be taken to have committed that offence unless the contrary is proved.

(3)In any proceedings where evidence is admissible of the fact that the accused has committed an offence, F747. . . , if the accused is proved to have been convicted of the offence—

(a)by or before any court in the United Kingdom F748...; or

(b)by a Service court outside the United Kingdom,

he shall be taken to have committed that offence unless the contrary is proved.

(4)Nothing in this section shall prejudice—

(a)the admissibility in evidence of any conviction which would be admissible apart from this section; or

(b)the operation of any enactment whereby a conviction or a finding of fact in any proceedings is for the purposes of any other proceedings made conclusive evidence of any fact.

Textual Amendments

F745Words in s. 74(1) substituted (15.12.2004) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), 331, 336, {Sch. 36 para. 85(2)}; S.I. 2004/3033, art. 3(1)(2)(d)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C503S. 74 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(b)

S. 74 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(b)

S. 74 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2372, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(b)

75 Provisions supplementary to section 74.U.K.

(1)Where evidence that a person has been convicted of an offence is admissible by virtue of section 74 above, then without prejudice to the reception of any other admissible evidence for the purpose of identifying the facts on which the conviction was based—

(a)the contents of any document which is admissible as evidence of the conviction; and

[F749(b)the contents of the information, complaint, indictment or charge-sheet on which the person in question was convicted,]

shall be admissible in evidence for that purpose.

(2)Where in any proceedings the contents of any document are admissible in evidence by virtue of subsection (1) above, a copy of that document, or of the material part of it, purporting to be certified or otherwise authenticated by or on behalf of the court or authority having custody of that document shall be admissible in evidence and shall be taken to be a true copy of that document or part unless the contrary is shown.

(3)Nothing in any of the following—

(a)[F750Section 14 of the Powers of Criminal Courts (Sentencing ) Act 2000] [F751or section 82 of the Sentencing Code] (under which a conviction leading to F752... discharge is to be disregarded except as mentioned in that section);

[F753(aa)section 187 of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (which makes similar provision in respect of service convictions);]

(b)[F754section 247 of the Criminal Procedure (Scotland) Act 1995] (which makes similar provision in respect of convictions on indictment in Scotland); and

(c)section 8 of the Probation Act (Northern Ireland) 1950 (which corresponds to section 13 of the Powers of Criminal Courts Act 1973) or any legislation which is in force in Northern Ireland for the time being and corresponds to that section,

shall affect the operation of section 74 above; and for the purposes of that section any order made by a court of summary jurisdiction in Scotland under section 182 or section 183 of the said Act of 1975 shall be treated as a conviction.

(4)Nothing in section 74 above shall be construed as rendering admissible in any proceedings evidence of any conviction other than a subsisting one.

Extent Information

E4S. 75 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F750Words in s. 75(3)(a) substituted (25.8.2000) by 2000 c. 6, ss. 165, 168(1), Sch. 9 para. 98

F751Words in s. 75(3)(a) inserted (1.12.2020) by Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 416(1), Sch. 24 para. 80(a) (with Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2

F752Words in s. 75(3)(a) omitted (1.12.2020) by virtue of Sentencing Act 2020 (c. 17), s. 416(1), Sch. 24 para. 80(b) (with Sch. 27); S.I. 2020/1236, reg. 2

F753S. 75(3)(aa) inserted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 103; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F754Words in s. 75(3)(b) substituted (1.4.1996) by 1995 c. 40, ss. 5, 7(2), Sch. 4 para. 55(a)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C504S. 75(3)(a) modified (1.12.2020 immediately before the consolidation date (see 2020 c. 9, ss. 3, 5(2)(3) and 2020 c. 17, ss. 2, 416)) by Sentencing (Pre-consolidation Amendments) Act 2020 (c. 9), ss. 1, 5(2)(3); S.I. 2012/1236, reg. 2

ConfessionsU.K.

76 Confessions.U.K.

(1)In any proceedings a confession made by an accused person may be given in evidence against him in so far as it is relevant to any matter in issue in the proceedings and is not excluded by the court in pursuance of this section.

(2)If, in any proceedings where the prosecution proposes to give in evidence a confession made by an accused person, it is represented to the court that the confession was or may have been obtained—

(a)by oppression of the person who made it; or

(b)in consequence of anything said or done which was likely, in the circumstances existing at the time, to render unreliable any confession which might be made by him in consequence thereof,

the court shall not allow the confession to be given in evidence against him except in so far as the prosecution proves to the court beyond reasonable doubt that the confession (notwithstanding that it may be true) was not obtained as aforesaid.

(3)In any proceedings where the prosecution proposes to give in evidence a confession made by an accused person, the court may of its own motion require the prosecution, as a condition of allowing it to do so, to prove that the confession was not obtained as mentioned in subsection (2) above.

(4)The fact that a confession is wholly or partly excluded in pursuance of this section shall not affect the admissibility in evidence—

(a)of any facts discovered as a result of the confession; or

(b)where the confession is relevant as showing that the accused speaks, writes or expresses himself in a particular way, of so much of the confession as is necessary to show that he does so.

(5)Evidence that a fact to which this subsection applies was discovered as a result of a statement made by an accused person shall not be admissible unless evidence of how it was discovered is given by him or on his behalf.

(6)Subsection (5) above applies—

(a)to any fact discovered as a result of a confession which is wholly excluded in pursuance of this section; and

(b)to any fact discovered as a result of a confession which is partly so excluded, if the fact is discovered as a result of the excluded part of the confession.

(7)Nothing in Part VII of this Act shall prejudice the admissibility of a confession made by an accused person.

(8)In this section “oppression” includes torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the use or threat of violence (whether or not amounting to torture).

F755(9). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Extent Information

E5S. 76 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F755S. 76(9) repealed (18.6.2012 for specified purposes, 5.11.2012 for specified purposes, 28.5.2013 for specified purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 3 para. 56(4), Sch. 37 Pt. 4; S.I. 2012/1320, art. 4(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with art. 5) (see S.I. 2012/2574, art. 4(2) and S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2012/2574, art. 2(2)(3)(c)(d), Sch. (with arts. 3 4) (as amended (4.11.2012) by S.I. 2012/2761, art. 2) (with S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2013/1103, art. 2(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with arts. 3 4)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C505S. 76 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

S. 76 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

S. 76 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

[F75676AConfessions may be given in evidence for co-accusedU.K.

(1)In any proceedings a confession made by an accused person may be given in evidence for another person charged in the same proceedings (a co-accused) in so far as it is relevant to any matter in issue in the proceedings and is not excluded by the court in pursuance of this section.

(2)If, in any proceedings where a co-accused proposes to give in evidence a confession made by an accused person, it is represented to the court that the confession was or may have been obtained—

(a)by oppression of the person who made it; or

(b)in consequence of anything said or done which was likely, in the circumstances existing at the time, to render unreliable any confession which might be made by him in consequence thereof,

the court shall not allow the confession to be given in evidence for the co-accused except in so far as it is proved to the court on the balance of probabilities that the confession (notwithstanding that it may be true) was not so obtained.

(3)Before allowing a confession made by an accused person to be given in evidence for a co-accused in any proceedings, the court may of its own motion require the fact that the confession was not obtained as mentioned in subsection (2) above to be proved in the proceedings on the balance of probabilities.

(4)The fact that a confession is wholly or partly excluded in pursuance of this section shall not affect the admissibility in evidence—

(a)of any facts discovered as a result of the confession; or

(b)where the confession is relevant as showing that the accused speaks, writes or expresses himself in a particular way, of so much of the confession as is necessary to show that he does so.

(5)Evidence that a fact to which this subsection applies was discovered as a result of a statement made by an accused person shall not be admissible unless evidence of how it was discovered is given by him or on his behalf.

(6)Subsection (5) above applies—

(a)to any fact discovered as a result of a confession which is wholly excluded in pursuance of this section; and

(b)to any fact discovered as a result of a confession which is partly so excluded, if the fact is discovered as a result of the excluded part of the confession.

(7)In this section “oppression” includes torture, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the use or threat of violence (whether or not amounting to torture).]

Textual Amendments

77 Confessions by mentally handicapped persons.U.K.

(1)Without prejudice to the general duty of the court at a trial on indictment [F757with a jury] to direct the jury on any matter on which it appears to the court appropriate to do so, where at such a trial—

(a)the case against the accused depends wholly or substantially on a confession by him; and

(b)the court is satisfied—

(i)that he is mentally handicapped; and

(ii)that the confession was not made in the presence of an independent person,

the court shall warn the jury that there is special need for caution before convicting the accused in reliance on the confession, and shall explain that the need arises because of the circumstances mentioned in paragraphs (a) and (b) above.

(2)In any case where at the summary trial of a person for an offence it appears to the court that a warning under subsection (1) above would be required if the trial were on indictment [F758with a jury] , the court shall treat the case as one in which there is a special need for caution before convicting the accused on his confession.

[F759(2A)In any case where at the trial on indictment without a jury of a person for an offence it appears to the court that a warning under subsection (1) above would be required if the trial were with a jury, the court shall treat the case as one in which there is a special need for caution before convicting the accused on his confession.]

(3)In this section—

  • “independent person” does not include a police officer or a person employed for, or engaged on, police purposes;

  • “mentally handicapped”, in relation to a person, means that he is in a state of arrested or incomplete development of mind which includes significant impairment of intelligence and social functioning; and

  • “police purposes” has the meaning assigned to it by [F760section 101(2) of the M43Police Act 1996].

Extent Information

E6S. 77 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F757Words in s. 77(1) inserted (24.7.2006 for E.W. and 8.1.2007 for N.I.) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 331, 336, Sch. 36 Pt. 4 para. 48(2); S.I. 2006/1835, art. 2(g)(h) (subject to art. 3); S.I. 2006/3422, art. 2(c)(i)

F758Words in s. 77(2) inserted (24.7.2006 for E.W. and 8.1.2007 for N.I.) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), ss. 331, 336, Sch. 36 Pt. 4 para. 48(3); S.I. 2006/1835, art. 2(g)(h) (subject to art. 3); S.I. 2006/3422, art. 2(c)(i)

F760Words in the definition of "police purposes" in s. 77(3) substituted (22.8.1996) by 1996 c. 16, ss. 103(1), 104(2), Sch. 7 Pt. II para.38

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Marginal Citations

MiscellaneousU.K.

78 Exclusion of unfair evidence.U.K.

(1)In any proceedings the court may refuse to allow evidence on which the prosecution proposes to rely to be given if it appears to the court that, having regard to all the circumstances, including the circumstances in which the evidence was obtained, the admission of the evidence would have such an adverse effect on the fairness of the proceedings that the court ought not to admit it.

(2)Nothing in this section shall prejudice any rule of law requiring a court to exclude evidence.

F761(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Extent Information

E7S. 78 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F761S. 78(3) repealed (18.6.2012 for specified purposes, 5.11.2012 for specified purposes, 28.5.2013 for specified purposes) by Criminal Justice Act 2003 (c. 44), s. 336(3)(4), Sch. 3 para. 56(5), Sch. 37 Pt. 4; S.I. 2012/1320, art. 4(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with art. 5) (see S.I. 2012/2574, art. 4(2) and S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2012/2574, art. 2(2)(3)(c)(d), Sch. (with arts. 3 4) (as amended (4.11.2012) by S.I. 2012/2761, art. 2) (with S.I. 2013/1103, art. 4); S.I. 2013/1103, art. 2(1)(c)(d)(2)(3) (with arts. 3 4)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C510S. 78(1) modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

S. 78(1) modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

S. 78(1) modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2372, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(c)

79 Time for taking accused’s evidence.U.K.

If at the trial of any person for an offence—

(a)the defence intends to call two or more witnesses to the facts of the case; and

(b)those witnesses include the accused,

the accused shall be called before the other witness or witnesses unless the court in its discretion otherwise directs.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

80[F762Competence and] compellability of accused’s spouse [F763or civil partner].U.K.

F764[(1)In any proceedings the wife or husband of the accused shall be competent to give evidence—

(a)subject to subsection (4) below, for the prosecution; and

(b)on behalf of the accused or any person jointly charged with the accused.]

[F765(2)In any proceedings the [F766spouse or civil partner] of a person charged in the proceedings shall, subject to subsection (4) below, be compellable to give evidence on behalf of that person.

(2A)In any proceedings the [F766spouse or civil partner] of a person charged in the proceedings shall, subject to subsection (4) below, be compellable—

(a)to give evidence on behalf of any other person charged in the proceedings but only in respect of any specified offence with which that other person is charged; or

(b)to give evidence for the prosecution but only in respect of any specified offence with which any person is charged in the proceedings.

(3)In relation to the [F766spouse or civil partner] of a person charged in any proceedings, an offence is a specified offence for the purposes of subsection (2A) above if—

(a)it involves an assault on, or injury or a threat of injury to, the [F766spouse or civil partner] or a person who was at the material time under the age of 16;

(b)it is a sexual offence alleged to have been committed in respect of a person who was at the material time under that age; or

(c)it consists of attempting or conspiring to commit, or of aiding, abetting, counselling, procuring or inciting the commission of, an offence falling within paragraph (a) or (b) above.

(4)No person who is charged in any proceedings shall be compellable by virtue of subsection (2) or (2A) above to give evidence in the proceedings.

(4A)References in this section to a person charged in any proceedings do not include a person who is not, or is no longer, liable to be convicted of any offence in the proceedings (whether as a result of pleading guilty or for any other reason).]

(5)In any proceedings a person who has been but is no longer married to the accused shall be [F767competent and] compellable to give evidence as if that person and the accused had never been married.

[F768(5A)In any proceedings a person who has been but is no longer the civil partner of the accused shall be compellable to give evidence as if that person and the accused had never been civil partners.]

(6)Where in any proceedings the age of any person at any time is material for the purposes of subsection (3) above, his age at the material time shall for the purposes of that provision be deemed to be or to have been that which appears to the court to be or to have been his age at that time.

(7)In subsection (3)(b) above “sexual offence” means an offence under [F769the Sexual Offences Act 1956, the M44Indecency with Children Act M451960, the Sexual Offences Act 1967, section 54 of the M46Criminal Law Act M471977 or] the M48Protection of Children Act 1978 [F770or Part 1 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003] [F771, or an offence under section 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (human trafficking) committed with a view to exploitation that consists of or includes behaviour within section 3(3) of that Act (sexual exploitation).] .

[F764(8)The failure of the wife or husband of the accused to give evidence shall not be made the subject of any comment by the prosecution.]

(9)Section 1(d) of the Criminal Evidence Act 1898 (communications between husband and wife) and section 43(1) of the M49Matrimonial Causes Act M501965 (evidence as to marital intercourse) shall cease to have effect.

Extent Information

E8S. 80 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F762S. 80: words in side-note omitted (24.7.2002 for E.W.) by virtue of 1999 c. 23, ss. 67(1), 68(3), Sch. 4 para. 13(4) (with Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2002/1739, art. 2(f)

F764S. 80(1)(8) repealed (24.7.2002 for E.W.) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 67(1)(3), 68(3), Sch. 4 para. 13(2), Sch. 6 (with Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2002/1739. {art. 2(f)(g)(ii)}

F765S. 80(2)-(4A) substituted for s. 80(2)-(4) (24.7.2002 for E.W.) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 67(1), 68(3), Sch. 4 para. 13(3) (with Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2002/1739, art. 2(f)

F766Words in s. 80(2)(2A)(3) substituted (5.12.2005) by Civil Partnership Act 2004 (c. 33), ss. 261(1), 263, Sch. 27 para. 97(2); S.I. 2005/3175, art. 2(2)

F767Words in s. 80(5) repealed (24.7.2002 for E.W.) by 1999 c. 23, ss. 67(1)(3), 68(3), Sch. 4 para. 13(4), Sch. 6 (with Sch. 7 paras. 3(3), 5(2)); S.I. 2002/1739, art. 2(f)(g)(ii)

F768S. 80(5A) inserted (5.12.2005) by Civil Partnership Act 2004 (c. 33), ss. 261(1), 263 {Sch. 27 para. 97(3)}; S.I. 2005/3175, art. 2(2)

F769Words in s. 80(7) repealed (E.W.) (1.5.2004) by Sexual Offences Act 2003 (c. 42), ss. 140, 141, Sch. 7; S.I. 2004/874, art. 2

F770Words in s. 80(7) inserted (E.W.) (1.5.2004) by Sexual Offences Act 2003 (c. 42), ss. 139, 141, Sch. 6 para. 28(2); S.I. 2004/874, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C512S. 80 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(f)

S. 80 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(f)

S. 80 modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2372, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(f)

Marginal Citations

[80AF772Rule where accused’s spouse [F773or civil partner] not compellable.U.K.

The failure of the [F774spouse or civil partner] of a person charged in any proceedings to give evidence in the proceedings shall not be made the subject of any comment by the prosecution.]

Extent Information

E9S. 80A extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

81 Advance notice of expert evidence in Crown Court.U.K.

(1)[F775Criminal Procedure Rules] may make provision for—

(a)requiring any party to proceedings before the court to disclose to the other party or parties any expert evidence which he proposes to adduce in the proceedings; and

(b)prohibiting a party who fails to comply in respect of any evidence with any requirement imposed by virtue of paragraph (a) above from adducing that evidence without the leave of the court.

(2)[F775Criminal Procedure Rules] made by virtue of this section may specify the kinds of expert evidence to which they apply and may exempt facts or matters of any description specified in the rules.

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C514S. 81 excluded (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(g)

S. 81 excluded (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule, 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(g)

S. 81 excluded (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2372 rule, 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(g)

Part VIII—supplementaryU.K.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C515Pt. VIII modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(a)

Pt. VIII modified (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371 rule, 27(2), Sch. 3 Pt. III para. 18(a)

82 Part VIII— interpretation.U.K.

(1)In this Part of this Act—

  • “confession”, includes any statement wholly or partly adverse to the person who made it, whether made to a person in authority or not and whether made in words or otherwise;

  • F776. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • “proceedings” means criminal proceedings, including [F777service proceedings;]

  • “Service court” means [F778the Court Martial or the Service Civilian Court].

[F779(1A)In subsection (1) “service proceedings” means proceedings before a court (other than a civilian court) in respect of a service offence; and “service offence” and “civilian court” here have the same meanings as in the Armed Forces Act 2006.]

(2)F780. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(3)Nothing in this Part of this Act shall prejudice any power of a court to exclude evidence (whether by preventing questions from being put or otherwise) at its discretion.

Extent Information

E10S. 82 extends to England and Wales only with exceptions as regards courts martial, see s. 120(1)(6)-(8)

Textual Amendments

F776S. 82(1): definition of "court-martial" repealed (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise prosp.) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 104(2)(a), Sch. 17; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059)

F777S. 82(1): words in definition of "Proceedings" substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for "paragraphs (a) to (c)" by virtue of Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383 {Sch. 16 para. 104(2)(b)}; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F778S. 82(1): words in definition of "Service Court" substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383 {Sch. 16 para. 104(2)(c)}; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F779S. 82(1A) inserted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 104(3); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F780S. 82(2) repealed (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise prosp.) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 104(4), Sch. 17; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059)

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

Part IXU.K. Police Complaints and Discipline

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C518Pt. IX (ss. 83–105) restricted by S.I. 1985/520, reg. 11

The Police Complaints AuthorityU.K.

F78183. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .U.K.

Textual Amendments

Handling of complaints etc.E+W

F78284. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78385. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78486. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78587. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78688. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78789. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78890. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F78991. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79092. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79193. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79294. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79395. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79496. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79597. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79698. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F79799. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F798100. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

Amendments of discipline provisionsE+W

F799101. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F800102. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F801103. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

GeneralE+W

F802104. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

F803105. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

Part XU.K. Police—General

F804106. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

107 Police officers performing duties of higher rank. E+W

(1)For the purpose of any provision of this Act or any other Act under which a power in respect of the investigation of offences or the treatment of persons in police custody is exercisable only by or with the authority of a police officer of at least the rank of superintendent, an officer of the rank of chief inspector shall be treated as holding the rank of superintendent if

[F805(a)he has been authorised by an officer holding a rank above the rank of superintendent to exercise the power or, as the case may be, to give his authority for its exercise, or

(b)he is acting during the absence of an officer holding the rank of superintendent who has authorised him, for the duration of that absence, to exercise the power or, as the case may be, to give his authority for its exercise.]

(2)For the purpose of any provision of this Act or any other Act under which such a power is exercisable only by or with the authority of an officer of at least the rank of inspector, an officer of the rank of sergeant shall be treated as holding the rank of inspector if he has been authorised by an officer of at least the rank of [F806superintendent] to exercise the power or, as the case may be, to give his authority for its exercise.

Textual Amendments

F805Words in s. 107(1) substituted (1.4.1995) by 1994 c. 29, s. 44, Sch. 5 Pt. II para. 35(2); S.I. 1994/3262, art. 4,Sch.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C519S. 107 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1800, arts. 3–11, Schs. 1, 2 (as amended by S.I. 1987/439, art. 3)

108 Deputy chief constables.E+W+S

F807. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

F808109. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .E+W

Textual Amendments

110 Functions of special constables in Scotland.S

F809. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

111 Regulations for Police Forces and Police Cadets—Scotland.S

(1)In section 26 to the M51Police (Scotland) Act 1967 (regulations as to government and administration of police forces)—

(a)after subsection (1) there shall be inserted the following subsection—

“(1A)Regulations under this section may authorise the Secretary of State, the police authority or the chief constable to make provision for any purpose specified in the regulations.”; and

(b)at the end there shall be inserted the following subsection—

“(10)Any statutory instrument made under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.”.

(2)In section 27 of the said Act of 1967 (regulations for police cadets) in subsection (3) for the word “(9)” there shall be substituted the words “(1A), (9) and (10)”.

Marginal Citations

F810112. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .S+N.I.

Textual Amendments

Part XIU.K. Miscellaneous and Supplementary

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

113Application of Act to Armed Forces.U.K.

[F811(1)The Secretary of State may by order make provision in relation to—

(a)investigations of service offences,

(b)persons arrested under a power conferred by or under the Armed Forces Act 2006,

(c)persons charged under that Act with service offences,

(d)persons in service custody, or

(e)persons convicted of service offences,

which is equivalent to that made by any provision of Part 5 of this Act (or this Part of this Act so far as relating to that Part), subject to such modifications as the Secretary of State considers appropriate.]

(2)Section 67(9) above shall not have effect in relation to investigations of [F812service offences].

(3)The Secretary of State shall issue a code of practice, or a number of such codes, for persons other than police officers who are [F813 concerned with—

(a)the exercise of powers conferred by or under Part 3 of the Armed Forces Act 2006; or

(b)investigations of service offences.]

[F814(3A)In subsections (4) to (10), “code” means a code of practice under subsection (3).]

(4)F815Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (3) above, a code . . . may contain provisions, in connection with [F816the powers mentioned in subsection (3)(a) above or the [F817investigations] mentioned in subsection (3)(b) above], as to the following matters—

(a)the [F818audio recording] of interviews;

(b)searches of persons and premises; and

(c)the seizure of things found on searches.

[F819(5)The Secretary of State may at any time revise the whole or any part of a code.

(6)A code may be made, or revised, so as to—

(a)apply only in relation to one or more specified areas,

(b)have effect only for a specified period,

(c)apply only in relation to specified offences or descriptions of offender.

(7)The Secretary of State must lay a code, or any revision of a code, before Parliament.]

(8)A failure on the part of any person to comply with any provision of a code F820. . . shall not of itself render him liable to any criminal or civil proceedings except those to which this subsection applies.

[F821(9)Subsection (8) above applies to proceedings in respect of an offence under a provision of Part 1 of the Armed Forces Act 2006 other than section 42 (criminal conduct).]

(10)In all criminal and civil proceedings any F822. . . code shall be admissible in evidence and if any provision of F822. . . a code appears to the court or tribunal conducting the proceedings to be relevant to any question arising in the proceedings it shall be taken into account in determining that question.

(11)F823. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(12)Parts VII and VIII of this Act have effect for the purposes of [F824 service proceedings] subject to any modifications which the Secretary of State may by order specify.

[F825(12A)In this section—

  • “service offence” has the meaning given by section 50 of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

  • “criminal proceedings” includes service proceedings;

  • “service proceedings” means proceedings before a court (other than a civilian court) in respect of a service offence; and

  • “civilian court” has the meaning given by section 374 of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

and section 376(1) and (2) of that Act (meaning of “convicted” in relation to summary hearings and the SAC) apply for the purposes of subsection (1)(e) above as they apply for the purposes of that Act.]

(13)An order under this section shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

[F826(14)Section 373(5) and (6) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (supplementary provisions) apply in relation to an order under this section as they apply in relation to an order under that Act.]

Textual Amendments

F811S. 113(1) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(2); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F812Words in s. 113(2) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(3); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F813Words in s. 113(3) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(4); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F816Words in s. 113(4) substituted (30.9.2003) by 2001 c. 19, ss. 13(1)(4), 39(2) (with s. 16(7)); S.I. 2003/2268, art. 2

F817Word in s. 113(4) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(5); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F818Words in s. 113(4)(a) substituted (31.1.2017 for specified purposes, 31.3.2017 in so far as not already in force) by Policing and Crime Act 2017 (c. 3), ss. 76(3), 183(5)(e)(6)(a)

F821S. 113(9) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(6); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F823S. 113(11) repealed (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise prosp.) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(7), Sch. 17; S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059)

F824Words in s. 113(12) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(8); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F825S. 113(12A) inserted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(9); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F826S. 113(14) added (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378(1), 383, Sch. 16 para. 105(10); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C524S. 113(1) modified (24.4.2009 for certain purposes and 31.10.2009 otherwise) by The Armed Forces Act 2006 (Transitional Provisions etc) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1059), arts. 1(3), 205, Sch. 1 para. 28(2)

C525S. 113(2)(3)(b) modified (24.4.2009 for certain purposes and 31.10.2009 otherwise) by The Armed Forces Act 2006 (Transitional Provisions etc) Order 2009 (S.I. 2009/1059), arts. 1(3), 205, Sch. 1 para. 28(3)

C526S. 113(12) applied (with modifications) (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2370, rule 27(1)(e)(2)

S. 113(12) applied (with modifications) (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2371, rule 27(1)(d)(2)

S. 113(12) applied (with modifications) (2.10.2000) by S.I. 2000/2372, rule 27(1)(d)(2)

114[F827Application of Act to Revenue and Customs]U.K.

(1)“Arrested”, “arresting”, “arrest” and “to arrest” shall respectively be substituted for “detained”, “detaining”, “detention” and “to detain” wherever in the customs and excise Acts, as defined in section 1(1) of the M52Customs and Excise Management Act 1979, those words are used in relation to persons.

(2)The Treasury may by order direct—

(a)that any provision of this Act which relates to investigations of offences conducted by police officers or to persons detained by the police shall apply, subject to such modifications as the order may specify, to [F828investigations conducted by officers of Revenue and Customs] or to [F829persons detained by officers of Revenue and Customs;] and

(b)that, in relation to [F830investigations of offences conducted by officers of Revenue and Customs]—

(i)this Act shall have effect as if the following [F831sections] were inserted after section 14—

“14A Exception for [F832Revenue and Customs].

Material in the possession of a person who acquired or created it in the course of any trade, business, profession or other occupation or for the purpose of any paid or unpaid office [F833and which relates to a matter in relation to which Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs have functions,] is neither excluded material nor special procedure material for the purposes of any enactment such as is mentioned in section 9(2) above.

[F83414BRevenue and Customs: restriction on other powers to apply for production of documents

(1)An officer of Revenue and Customs may make an application for the delivery of, or access to, documents under a provision specified in subsection (3) only if the condition in subsection (2) is satisfied.

(2)The condition is that the officer thinks that an application under Schedule 1 would not succeed because the material required does not consist of or include special procedure material.

(3)The provisions are—

(a)section 20BA of, and Schedule 1AA to, the Taxes Management Act 1970 (serious tax fraud);

(b)paragraph 11 of Schedule 11 to the Value Added Tax Act 1994 (VAT);

(c)paragraph 4A of Schedule 7 to the Finance Act 1994 (insurance premium tax);

(d)paragraph 7 of Schedule 5 to the Finance Act 1996 (landfill tax);

(e)paragraph 131 of Schedule 6 to the Finance Act 2000 (climate change levy);

(f)paragraph 8 of Schedule 7 to the Finance Act 2001 (aggregates levy);

(g)Part 6 of Schedule 13 to the Finance Act 2003 (stamp duty land tax).”; and

(ii)section 55 above shall have effect as if it related only to things such as are mentioned in subsection (1)(a) of that section.

[F835(d)that where an officer of Revenue and Customs searches premises in reliance on a warrant under section 8 of, or paragraph 12 of Schedule 1 to, this Act (as applied by an order under this subsection) the officer shall have the power to search persons found on the premises—

(i)in such cases and circumstances as are specified in the order, and

(ii)subject to any conditions specified in the order; and

(e)that powers and functions conferred by a provision of this Act (as applied by an order under this subsection) may be exercised only by officers of Revenue and Customs acting with the authority (which may be general or specific) of the Commissioners for Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs.]

[F836(2A)A certificate of the Commissioners that an officer of Revenue and Customs had authority under subsection (2)(e) to exercise a power or function conferred by a provision of this Act shall be conclusive evidence of that fact.]

[F837(3)An order under subsection (2)—

(a)may make provision that applies generally or only in specified cases or circumstances,

(b)may make different provision for different cases or circumstances,

(c)may, in modifying a provision, in particular impose conditions on the exercise of a function, and

(d)shall not be taken to limit a power under section 164 of the Customs and Excise Management Act 1979.]

(4)F838. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(5)An order under this section shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F827S. 114 heading substituted (8.11.2007) by virtue of Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(11), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F828Words in s. 114(2)(a) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(2)(a), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F829Words in s. 114(2)(a) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(2)(b), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F830Words in s. 114(2)(b) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(3), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F831Words in s. 114(2)(b)(i) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(4), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F832Words in s. 114(2)(b)(i) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(5)(b), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F833Words in s. 114(2)(b)(i) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ), {ss. 82(5)(a)}, 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F834Words in s. 114(2)(b)(i) inserted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(6), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F835S. 114(2)(d)(e) inserted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(8), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F836S. 114(2A) inserted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(9), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

F837S. 114(3) substituted (8.11.2007) by Finance Act 2007 (c. 11), ss. 82(10), 84(5); S.I. 2007/3166, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C528S. 114(2) extended (1.4.2003) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 67, 138(2); S.I. 2003/708, art. 2(c)

Marginal Citations

[F839114ZAApplication of Act to Welsh Revenue AuthorityU.K.

(1)The Welsh Ministers may by regulations—

(a)direct that any provision of this Act which relates to investigations of offences conducted by police officers or to the detention of persons by the police is to apply, subject to such modifications as the regulations may specify, to investigations of offences conducted by the Welsh Revenue Authority (“WRA”) or to the detention of persons by WRA in connection with such investigations;

(b)make provision permitting a person exercising a function conferred on WRA by the regulations to use reasonable force in the exercise of such a function;

(c)specify that where premises are searched by WRA in reliance on a warrant under section 8 of, or paragraph 12 of Schedule 1 to, this Act (as applied by regulations under paragraph (a)) persons found on the premises may be searched—

(i)in such cases and circumstances as are specified in the regulations, and

(ii)subject to any conditions specified in the regulations.

(2)Regulations under subsection (1) may—

(a)make provision that applies generally or only in specified cases,

(b)make different provision for different cases or circumstances, and

(c)may, in modifying a provision, in particular impose conditions on the exercise of a function.

(3)The power to make regulations under subsection (1) is exercisable by statutory instrument.

(4)A statutory instrument containing regulations under subsection (1) may not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, the National Assembly for Wales.]

Textual Amendments

[F840114A Power to apply Act to officers of the Secretary of State etc.E+W

(1)The Secretary of State may by order direct that—

(a)the provisions of Schedule 1 to this Act so far as they relate to special procedure material, and

(b)the other provisions of this Act so far as they relate to the provisions falling within paragraph (a) above,

shall apply, with such modifications as may be specified in the order, for the purposes of investigations falling within subsection (2) as they apply for the purposes of investigations of offences conducted by police officers.

(2)An investigation falls within this subsection if—

(a)it is conducted by an officer of the department of [F841the Secretary of State for Business and Trade] or by another person acting on that Secretary of State’s behalf;

(b)it is conducted by that officer or other person in the discharge of a duty to investigate offences; and

(c)the investigation relates to [F842an indictable offence] or to anything which there are reasonable grounds for suspecting has involved the commission of [F842an indictable offence].

(3)The investigations for the purposes of which provisions of this Act may be applied with modifications by an order under this section include investigations of offences committed, or suspected of having been committed, before the coming into force of the order or of this section.

(4)An order under this section shall be made by statutory instrument and shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]

Textual Amendments

F840S. 114A inserted (11.7.2001) by 2001 c 16, ss. 85, 138(4)

[F843114BApplication of Act to labour abuse prevention officersU.K.

(1)The Secretary of State may by regulations apply any provision of this Act which relates to investigations of offences conducted by police officers to investigations of labour market offences conducted by labour abuse prevention officers.

(2)The regulations may apply provisions of this Act with any modifications specified in the regulations.

(3)In this section “labour abuse prevention officer” means an officer of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority who—

(a)falls within subsection (4), and

(b)is authorised (whether generally or specifically) by the Secretary of State for the purposes of this section.

(4)An officer of the Gangmasters and Labour Abuse Authority falls within this subsection if he or she is—

(a)acting for the purposes of the Employment Agencies Act 1973 (see section 8A of that Act),

(b)acting for the purposes of the National Minimum Wage Act 1998 (see section 13 of that Act),

(c)acting for the purposes of the Gangmasters (Licensing) Act 2004 as an enforcement officer within the meaning of section 15 of that Act,

(d)acting for the purposes of Part 1 or 2 of the Modern Slavery Act 2015 (see sections 11A and 30A of that Act), or

(e)acting for any other purpose prescribed in regulations made by the Secretary of State.

(5)The investigations for the purposes of which provisions of this Act may be applied by regulations under this section include investigations of offences committed, or suspected of having been committed, before the coming into force of the regulations or of this section.

(6)Regulations under this section are to be made by statutory instrument.

(7)Regulations under this section may make—

(a)different provision for different purposes;

(b)provision which applies generally or for particular purposes;

(c)incidental, supplementary, consequential, transitional or transitory provision or savings.

(8)Regulations under subsection (4)(e) may, in particular, make such provision amending, repealing or revoking any enactment as the Secretary of State considers appropriate in consequence of any provision made by the regulations.

(9)A statutory instrument containing regulations under subsection (4)(e) may not be made unless a draft of the instrument has been laid before, and approved by a resolution of, each House of Parliament.

(10)Any other statutory instrument containing regulations under this section is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(11)In this section—

  • “enactment” includes an enactment contained in subordinate legislation within the meaning of the Interpretation Act 1978;

  • “labour market offence” has the meaning given in section 3 of the Immigration Act 2016.]

Textual Amendments

[F844114CPower to apply Act to food crime officersE+W

(1)The Secretary of State may by regulations apply any provision of this Act which relates to investigations of offences conducted by police officers to investigations of offences conducted by food crime officers.

(2)The regulations may apply provisions of this Act with any modifications specified in the regulations.

(3)In this section “food crime officer” means an officer of the Food Standards Agency who—

(a)is acting for the purposes of the performance by the Food Standards Agency of its functions under the Food Standards Act 1999 or any other enactment (including functions relating to the investigation of offences), and

(b)is authorised (whether generally or specifically) by the Secretary of State for the purposes of this section.

(4)The investigations for the purposes of which provisions of this Act may be applied by regulations under this section include investigations of offences committed, or suspected of having been committed, before the coming into force of the regulations or of this section.

(5)Regulations under this section are to be made by statutory instrument.

(6)Regulations under this section may make—

(a)different provision for different purposes;

(b)provision which applies generally or for particular purposes;

(c)incidental, supplementary, consequential, transitional or transitory provision or savings.

(7)A statutory instrument containing regulations under this section is subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.

(8)In this section “enactment” includes—

(a)an enactment comprised in subordinate legislation within the meaning of the Interpretation Act 1978, and

(b)an enactment comprised in, or in an instrument made under, a Measure or Act of Senedd Cymru.]

Textual Amendments

115 Expenses.U.K.

Any expenses of a Minister of the Crown incurred in consequence of the provisions of this Act, including any increase attributable to those provisions in sums payable under any other Act, shall be defrayed out of money provided by Parliament.

116 Meaning of “serious arrestable offence”.E+W

F845. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Textual Amendments

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C529S. 116 applied (1.11.1999) by 1999 c. 8, s. 24(10)(a); S.I. 1999/2793, art. 2(1)(b), Sch. 2

117 Power of constable to use reasonable force.E+W

Where any provision of this Act—

(a)confers a power on a constable; and

(b)does not provide that the power may only be exercised with the consent of some person, other than a police officer,

the officer may use reasonable force, if necessary, in the exercise of the power.

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C530S. 117 applied (with modifications) (1.1.1986) by S.I. 1985/1882, art. 11;

S. 117 applied (with modifications) (1.2.1997) by S.I. 1997/15, art. 2(1), Sch.

S. 117 applied (with modifications) (31.12.2006) by The Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (Application to the Armed Forces) Order 2006 (S.I. 2006/2015), arts. 2, 3, Schs. 1-3

118 General interpretation. U.K.

(1)In this Act—

  • F846. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • [F847[F848“British Transport Police Force” means the constables appointed under section 53 of the British Transport Commission Act 1949 (c. xxix);]

  • “designated police station” has the meaning assigned to it by section 35 above;

  • “document” [F849means anything in which information of any description is recorded.];

  • F850. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • “item subject to legal privilege” has the meaning assigned to it by section 10 above;

  • “parent or guardian” means—

    (a)

    in the case of a child or young person in the care of a local authority, that authority; F851 . . .

    (b)

    F851. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  • “premises” has the meaning assigned to it by section 23 above;

  • “recordable offence” means any offence to which regulations under section 27 above apply;

  • “vessel” includes any ship, boat, raft or other apparatus constructed or adapted for floating on water.

(2)[F852Subject to subsection (2A)] a person is in police detention for the purposes of this Act if—

[F853(a)he has been taken to a police station after being arrested for an offence or after being arrested under section 41 [F854or 43B] of the Terrorism Act 2000 [F855or section 27 of the National Security Act 2023], or]

(b)he is arrested at a police station after attending voluntarily at the station or accompanying a constable to it,

and is detained there or is detained elsewhere in the charge of a constable, except that a person who is at a court after being charged is not in police detention for those purposes.

[F856(2A)Where a person is in another’s lawful custody by virtue of paragraph F857... 34(1) or 35(3) of Schedule 4 to the Police Reform Act 2002, he shall be treated as in police detention.]]

Extent Information

E11For the extent of this Act see s. 120(11)

Textual Amendments

F847S. 118(1): definition of "British Transport Police Force" ceased to have effect (1.7.2004) by virtue of Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (c. 20), ss. 73, 120, Sch. 5 para. 4(1)(b)(2) (with s. 72); S.I. 2004/1572, art. 3(ddd)(jjj)

F848Words in s. 118(1) inserted (14.12.2001) by 2001 c 24, s. 101, Sch. 7 para. 14

F849Words in definition of "document" in s. 118(1) substituted (31.1.1997) by 1995 c. 38, s. 15(1), Sch. 1 para. 9(3) (with ss. 1(3), 6(4)(5), 14); S.I. 1996/3217, art. 2

F850Definition of "intimate search" in s. 118(1) repealed (10.4.1995) by 1994 c. 33, s. 168(3), Sch. 11; S.I. 1995/721, art. 2, Sch. Appendix B

F851In s. 118, paragraph (b) of definition and the word immediately preceding it repealed (E.W.)(14.10.1991) by Children Act 1989 (c. 41, SIF 20), s. 108(7), Sch. 15 (with Sch. 14 paras. 1(1), 27(4)); S.I. 1991/828, art. 3(2)

F853S. 118(2)(a) substituted (19.2.2001) by 2000 c. 11, s. 125(1), Sch. 15 para. 5(12); S.I. 2001/421, art. 2

Modifications etc. (not altering text)

C532S. 118 applied with modifications by S.I. 1985/1882, arts. 3, 10

119 Amendments and repeals.U.K.

(1)The enactments mentioned in Schedule 6 to this Act shall have effect with the amendments there specified.

(2)The enactments mentioned in Schedule 7 to this Act (which include enactments already obsolete or unnecessary) are repealed to the extent specified in the third column of that Schedule.

(3)The repeals in Parts II and IV of Schedule 7 to this Act have effect only in relation to criminal proceedings.

120 Extent.U.K.

(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, this Act extends to England and Wales only.

(2)The following extend to Scotland only—

  • F858. . .

  • F858. . .

  • section 111;

  • section 112(1); and

  • section 119(2), so far as it relates to the provisions of the M53Pedlars Act 1871 repealed by Part VI of Schedule 7.

(3)The following extend to Northern Ireland only—

  • section 6(4); and

  • section 112(2).

(4)The following extend to England and Wales and Scotland—

  • section 6(1) and (2);

  • section 7;

  • F859. . .

  • F859. . .

  • F859. . .

  • section 119(2), so far as it relates to section 19 of the M54Pedlars Act 1871.

(5)The following extend to England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland—

  • section 6(3);

  • [F860section 9(2A);]

  • F861. . .

  • section 114(1).

[F862(6)Nothing in subsection (1) affects—

(a)the extent of section 113(1) to (7) and (12) to (14);

(b)the extent of the relevant provisions so far as they relate to service proceedings.]

(8)In this section “the relevant provisions” means—

[F863(a)section 67(11) to (13);]

(c)Parts VII and VIII of this Act, except paragraph 10 of Schedule 3;

[F864(d)section 113(8) to (10).]

[F865(8A)In this section “service proceedings” means proceedings before a court (other than a civilian court) in respect of a service offence; and “service offence” and “civilian court” here have the same meanings as in the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

(8B)Section 384 of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (Channel Islands, Isle of Man and British overseas territories) applies in relation to the provisions mentioned in subsection (6)(a) and (b) above as it applies in relation to that Act.]

F866(9A)Section 119(1), so far as it relates to any provision amended by Part II of Schedule 6, extends to any place to which that provision extends.

(10)Section 119(2), so far as it relates—

(a)to any provision contained in—

  • the M55Army Act 1955;

  • the M56Air Force Act 1955;

  • the M57Armed Forces Act 1981; or

  • the M58Value Added Tax Act 1983;

(b)to any provision mentioned in Part VI of Schedule 7, other than section 18 of the M59Pedlars Act 1871,

extends to any place to which that provision extends.

(11)So far as any of the following—

  • section 115;

  • in section 118, the definition of “document”;

  • this section;

  • section 121; and

  • section 122,

has effect in relation to any other provision of this Act, it extends to any place to which that provision extends.

Textual Amendments

F858Words in s. 120(2) repealed (21.7.2008) by Statute Law (Repeals) Act 2008 (c. 12), s. 1(1), Sch. 1 Pt. 6

F859Words in s. 120(4) repealed (21.7.2008) by Statute Law (Repeals) Act 2008 (c. 12), s. 1(1), Sch. 1 Pt. 6

F860Words in s. 120(5) inserted (1.8.2001) by 2001 c. 16, s. 86(2); S.I. 2001/2223, art. 3(e)

F861Words in s. 120(5) repealed (21.7.2008) by Statute Law (Repeals) Act 2008 (c. 12), s. 1(1), Sch. 1 Pt. 6

F862S. 120(6) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for s. 120(6)(7) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 106(2); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F863S. 120(8)(a) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for s. 120(8)(a)(b) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 106(3)(a); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F864S. 120(8)(d) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for s. 120(8)(d)(e) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 106(3)(b); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F865S. 120(8A)(8B) substituted (28.3.2009 for certain purposes and otherwise 31.10.2009) for s. 120(9) by Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52), ss. 378, 383, Sch. 16 para. 106(4); S.I. 2009/812, art. 3 (with transitional provisions in S.I. 2009/1059); S.I. 2009/1167, art. 4

F866S. 120(9A) re-numbered from subsection (9) by Criminal Justice Act 1988 (c. 33, SIF 39:1), s. 170(1), Sch. 15 para. 101

Marginal Citations

121 Commencement.U.K.

(1)This Act, except section 120 above, this section and section 122 below, shall come into operation on such day as the Secretary of State may by order made by statutory instrument appoint, and different days may be so appointed for different provisions and for different purposes.

(2)Different days may be appointed under this section for the coming into force of section 60 above in different areas.

(3)When an order under this section provides by virtue of subsection (2) above that section 60 above shall come into force in an area specified in the order, the duty imposed on the Secretary of State by that section shall be construed as a duty to make an order under it in relation to interviews in that area.

(4)An order under this section may make such transitional provision as appears to the Secretary of State to be necessary or expedient in connection with the provisions thereby brought into operation.

Subordinate Legislation Made

P1S. 121 power partly exercised by S.I.1991/2686

S. 121 power partly exercised (8.11.1992); 9.11.1992 appointed for specified provision by S.I. 1992/2802, art.2.

S. 121 power of appointment conferred by s. 121(1) previously exercised: S.I. 1984/2002, 1985/623, 1934

122 Short title.U.K.

This Act may be cited as the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984.