- Latest available (Revised)
- Point in Time (22/11/2012)
- Original (As enacted)
Version Superseded: 10/12/2012
Point in time view as at 22/11/2012.
Police Act 1996, Part II is up to date with all changes known to be in force on or before 15 August 2024. There are changes that may be brought into force at a future date. Changes that have been made appear in the content and are referenced with annotations.
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(1)The Secretary of State shall exercise his powers under the provisions of this Act referred to in subsection (2) in such manner and to such extent as appears to him to be best calculated to promote the efficiency and effectiveness of the police.
(2)The provisions of this Act mentioned in subsection (1) are—
(a)Part I;
(b)this Part;
(c)Part III (other than sections 61 and 62);
(d)in Chapter II of Part IV, [F1sections 84 and 85] and Schedule 6; and
(e)in Part V, section 95.
Textual Amendments
F1Words in s. 36(2)(d) substituted (3.11.2008) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 22 para. 2; S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 16(a)
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Textual Amendments
F2S. 36A repealed (8.11.2006) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(2), Sch. 2 para. 24, Sch. 15 Pt. 1(B)
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Textual Amendments
F3S. 37 repealed (8.11.2006) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(2), Sch. 2 para. 24, Sch. 15 Pt. 1(B)
(1)The Secretary of State must, from time to time, issue a document (the “strategic policing requirement”) which sets out what, in the Secretary of State's view, are—
(a)national threats at the time the document is issued, and
(b)appropriate national policing capabilities to counter those national threats.
(2)A chief officer of police must, in exercising the functions of chief officer, have regard to the strategic policing requirement.
(3)Before issuing the strategic policing requirement, the Secretary of State—
(a)must obtain the advice of—
(i)such persons as appear to the Secretary of State to represent the views of chief officers of police, and
(ii)such persons as appear to the Secretary of State to represent the views of local policing bodies, and
(b)must consult such other persons as the Secretary of State thinks fit.
(4)The strategic policing requirement need not set out a national threat (in particular) if, in the Secretary of State's view, countering the threat would involve police forces other than England and Wales police forces (and only those other police forces).
(5)References in this section to national policing capabilities to counter a threat are references to the ability of all England and Wales police forces—
(a)to exercise one or more functions to counter that threat,
(b)to exercise one or more functions in one or more particular ways to counter that threat, or
(c)to exercise one or more functions in accordance with common operational standards to counter that threat.
(6)In this section—
“England and Wales police force” means—
a police force maintained under section 2,
the metropolitan police force, and
the City of London police force;
“national threat” means a threat (whether actual or prospective) which is—
a threat to national security, public safety, public order or public confidence that is of such gravity as to be of national importance, or
a threat which can be countered effectively or efficiently only by national policing capabilities to counter the threat.]
Textual Amendments
F4S. 37A substituted (25.4.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 77, 157(1); S.I. 2012/1129, art. 2(c)
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Textual Amendments
F5S. 38 omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 81(a), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
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Textual Amendments
F6S. 39 omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 81(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(2))
(1)If the Secretary of State considers it necessary to do so for the purpose of promoting the efficiency and effectiveness generally of the police forces maintained for police areas in England and Wales, he may issue codes of practice relating to the discharge of their functions by the chief officers of police of those forces.
(2)The Secretary of State may from time to time revise the whole or any part of a code of practice issued under this section.
F8(3). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4)Before [F9issuing or revising such a code, the Secretary of State] shall consult with—
[F10(a)such 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;]
[F11(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers; and]
(c)such other persons as [F12the Secretary of State] thinks fit.
(5)The Secretary of State shall lay any code of practice issued by him under this section, and any revision of any such code, before Parliament.
(6)The Secretary of State shall not be required by subsection (5) to lay before Parliament, or may exclude from what he does so lay, anything the publication of which, in his opinion—
(a)would be against the interests of national security;
(b)could prejudice the prevention or detection of crime or the apprehension or prosecution of offenders; or
(c)could jeopardise the safety of any person.
(7)In discharging any function to which a code of practice under this section relates, a chief officer of police shall have regard to the code.]
Textual Amendments
F7S. 39A inserted (1.10.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 2, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 2(a)
F8S. 39A(3) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 30(2); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F9Words in s. 39A(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 30(3)(a); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F10Ss. 39A(4)(a)-(ab) substituted for s. 39A(4)(a) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 30(3)(b); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 12)
F11S. 39A(4)(a)(b) substituted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 4 para. 3; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(d) (with art. 6)
F12Words in s. 39A(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 30(3)(c); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)Where the Secretary of State is satisfied that the whole or any part of a police force is failing to discharge any of its functions in an effective manner, whether generally or in particular respects, he may direct the [F14local policing body] responsible for maintaining the force to take specified measures for the purpose of remedying the failure.
(2)Where the Secretary of State is satisfied that the whole or a part of a police force will fail to discharge any of its functions in an effective manner, whether generally or in particular respects, unless remedial measures are taken, he may direct the [F14local policing body] responsible for maintaining the force to take specified measures in order to prevent such a failure occurring.
(3)The measures that may be specified in a direction under subsection (1) or (2) include the submission to the Secretary of State of an action plan setting out the measures which the person or persons submitting the plan propose to take for the purpose of remedying the failure in question or (as the case may be) preventing such a failure occurring.
(4)The Secretary of State shall not give a direction under this section in relation to any police force unless—
(a)the [F14local policing body] responsible for maintaining the force and the chief officer of police of that force have each been given such information about the Secretary of State's grounds for proposing to give that direction as he considers appropriate for enabling them to make representations or proposals under the following paragraphs of this subsection;
(b)that [F14local policing body] and chief officer have each been given an opportunity of making representations about those grounds;
(c)that [F14local policing body] and chief officer have each had an opportunity of making proposals for the taking of remedial measures that would make the giving of the direction unnecessary; and
(d)the Secretary of State has considered any such representations and any such proposals.
(5)Subsection (4) does not apply if the Secretary of State is satisfied that—
(a)the [F14local policing body] responsible for maintaining the force and the chief officer of police of that force have already been made aware of the matters constituting the Secretary of State's grounds for proposing to give a direction under this section;
(b)the information they had about those matters was sufficient to enable them to identify remedial measures that would have made the giving of the direction unnecessary; and
(c)they have each had a reasonable opportunity to take such measures.
(6)The Secretary of State shall not give a direction under this section unless Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary has been given—
(a)the same information about the grounds for proposing to give that direction as is required to be given under subsection (4)(a) (or would be so required but for subsection (5)); and
(b)an opportunity of making written observations about those grounds.
The Secretary of State shall publish any such observations in such manner as appears to him to be appropriate.
(7)A [F14local policing body] that is given a direction under this section shall comply with it.
Textual Amendments
F13Ss. 40-40B substituted for s. 40 (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 27; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c) (with art. 6)
F14Words in s. 40 substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 91(2), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)Where the Secretary of State is satisfied that a [F15local policing body] is failing to discharge any of its functions in an effective manner, whether generally or in particular respects, he may direct the [F15local policing body] to take specified measures for the purpose of remedying the failure.
(2)Where the Secretary of State is satisfied that a [F15local policing body] will fail to discharge any of its functions in an effective manner, whether generally or in particular respects, unless remedial measures are taken, he may direct the [F15local policing body] to take specified measures in order to prevent such a failure occurring.
(3)The measures that may be specified in a direction under subsection (1) or (2) include the submission to the Secretary of State of an action plan setting out the measures which [F16the local policing body] submitting the plan proposes to take for the purpose of remedying the failure in question or (as the case may be) preventing such a failure occurring.
(4)The Secretary of State shall not give a direction under this section in relation to a [F15local policing body] unless—
(a)the [F15local policing body] has been given such information about the Secretary of State's grounds for proposing to give that direction as he considers appropriate for enabling it to make representations or proposals under the following paragraphs of this subsection;
(b)the [F15local policing body] has been given an opportunity of making representations about those grounds;
(c)the [F15local policing body] has had an opportunity of making proposals for the taking of remedial measures that would make the giving of the direction unnecessary; and
(d)the Secretary of State has considered any such representations and any such proposals.
(5)Subsection (4) does not apply if the Secretary of State is satisfied that—
(a)the [F15local policing body] has already been made aware of the matters constituting the Secretary of State's grounds for proposing to give a direction under this section;
(b)the information [F16the local policing body] had about those matters was sufficient to enable it to identify remedial measures that would have made the giving of the direction unnecessary; and
(c)[F16the local policing body] has had a reasonable opportunity to take such measures.
(6)The Secretary of State shall not give a direction under this section unless Her Majesty's Chief Inspector of Constabulary has been given—
(a)the same information about the grounds for proposing to give that direction as is required to be given under subsection (4)(a) (or would be so required but for subsection (5)); and
(b)an opportunity of making written observations about those grounds.
The Secretary of State shall publish any such observations in such manner as appears to him to be appropriate.
(7)A [F15local policing body] that is given a direction under this section shall comply with it.
(8)Nothing in this section or in section 40 prevents the Secretary of State from exercising (whether in relation to the same matter or different matters or at the same time or at different times) both his powers under this section and his powers under section 40.
Textual Amendments
F13Ss. 40-40B substituted for s. 40 (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 27; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c) (with art. 6)
F15Words in s. 40A substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 91(3)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F16Words in s. 40A substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 91(3)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)The Secretary of State may by regulations make further provision as to the procedure to be followed in cases where—
(a)a proposal is made for the giving of a direction under section 40;
(b)a proposal is made for the giving of a direction under section 40A.
(2)Before making any regulations under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult with—
[F17(a)such 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;]
(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers; and
(c)such other persons as he thinks fit.
(3)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and circumstances.
(4)A statutory instrument containing regulations under this section shall not be made unless a draft of the regulations has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.
(5)On giving a direction under section 40 or section 40A to a [F18local policing body], the Secretary of State shall notify the chief officer of police of the force in question that he has given that direction.
(6)Where the Secretary of State gives a direction under section 40 or section 40A he shall lay before Parliament—
(a)a copy of the direction; and
(b)a report about it.
(7)A report under [F19subsection (6)]—
(a)shall be prepared at such time as the Secretary of State considers appropriate; and
(b)may relate to more than one direction.]
Textual Amendments
F13Ss. 40-40B substituted for s. 40 (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 27; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c) (with art. 6)
F17Ss. 40B(2)(a)-(ab) substituted for s. 40B(2)(a) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 91(4), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 3)
F18Words in s. 40B(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 91(5), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F19Words in s. 40B(7) substituted (12.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), s. 116(6)(a), Sch. 7 para. 133
(1)The power of the Secretary of State to give directions under section 40 [F20or 40A] to a [F21a police and crime commissioner] shall include power to direct [F22the commissioner] that the amount of [F23the commissioner's] [F24council tax requirement (under section 42A of the Local Government Finance Act 1992) or budget requirement (under section 43 of that Act) for any financial year] shall not be less than an amount specified in the direction.
[F25(1A)But the Secretary of State may not give a direction to the police and crime commissioner for a police area by virtue of subsection (1) unless the Secretary of State is satisfied that it is necessary to give the direction in order to prevent the safety of people in that police area from being put at risk.]
(2)The power exercisable by virtue of subsection (1), and any direction given under that power, are subject to any limitation imposed under Chapter [F264ZA or] [F27IVA] of Part I of the Local Government Finance Act 1992.
(3)A direction shall not be given by virtue of subsection (1) in relation to a financial year at any time after the end of the preceding December.
(4)Where the Secretary of State gives a direction to [F28a police and crime commissioner] by virtue of subsection (1), any precept issued or calculation made by [F29the commissioner] under Part I of the Local Government Finance Act 1992 which is inconsistent with the direction shall be void.
Textual Amendments
F20Words in s. 41(1) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 28; S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c) (with art. 6)
F21Words in s. 41(1) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(2)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F22Words in s. 41(1) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(2)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F23Words in s. 41(1) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(2)(c), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F24Words in s. 41(1) substituted (3.12.2011) by Localism Act 2011 (c. 20), s. 240(2), Sch. 7 para. 33; S.I. 2011/2896, art. 2(i)
F25S. 41(1A) inserted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(3), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F26Words in s. 41(2) inserted (3.12.2011) by Localism Act 2011 (c. 20), s. 240(2), Sch. 6 para. 33; S.I. 2011/2896, art. 2(i)
F27Words in s. 41(2) substituted (27.7.1999 so as to apply as mentioned in S. 30(2)) by 1999 c. 27, s. 30(1), Sch. 1 Pt. II para. 10
F28Words in s. 41(4) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(4)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F29Words in s. 41(4) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 22(4)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
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Textual Amendments
F30S. 41A repealed (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 29, Sch. 15 Pt. 1(B); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c)(r)(i) (with art. 6)
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Textual Amendments
F31S. 41B repealed (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), s. 53(1), Sch. 2 para. 29, Sch. 15 Pt. 1(B); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(c)(r)(i) (with art. 6)
[F33[F34(1)The Secretary of State may require the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime to exercise the power under section 48 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (the “2011 Act”) to call upon the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, or the Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, to retire or resign.
(1A)The Secretary of State may also require the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime to exercise the power under section 48 of the 2011 Act to suspend the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, or the Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, if the Secretary of State considers that it is necessary for the maintenance of public confidence in the metropolitan police force for that police officer to be suspended.]
(2)[F35Before requiring the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime to exercise its power to call upon the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, or the Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis, to retire or resign, the Secretary of State shall—]
(a)give the officer concerned a notice in writing—
(i)informing him of the Secretary of State’s intention to require the exercise of that power; and
(ii)explaining the Secretary of State’s grounds for requiring the exercise of that power; and
(b)give that officer an opportunity to make representations to the Secretary of State.
(2A)Where the Secretary of State gives a notice under subsection (2)(a), he shall send a copy of the [F36notice to the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime.]
(2B)The Secretary of State shall consider any representations made to him under subsection (2).]
(3)[F37Where the Secretary of State proposes to require the exercise of a power mentioned in subsection (1), he] shall, appoint one or more persons (one at least of whom shall be a person who is not an officer of police or of a Government department) to hold an inquiry and report to him and shall consider any report made under this subsection.
[F38(3A)At an inquiry held under subsection (3)—
(a)the Commissioner [F39or Deputy Commissioner] shall be entitled, in accordance with any regulations under section 42A, to make representations to the inquiry;
(b)the [F40Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] shall be entitled, in accordance with any regulations made under section 42A, to make representations to the inquiry.
(3B)The entitlement of the Commissioner [F41or Deputy Commissioner] to make representations shall include the entitlement to make them in person.]
(4)The costs incurred by a [F42 the Commissioner [F43 or Deputy Commissioner ]] in respect of an inquiry under this section, taxed in such manner as the Secretary of State may direct, shall be defrayed out of the police fund.
[F44(4A)If the Secretary of State exercises the power conferred by subsection (1) to require the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime to call upon the Commissioner to retire or resign—
(a)the requirement of section 48(1) of the 2011 Act to obtain the Secretary of State's consent does not apply, and
(b)section 48(5) of the 2011 Act does not apply.]
(4B)In this section “the Commissioner” means the Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis and “the Deputy Commissioner” means the Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis.
F45(4C). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F46(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F32S. 42 title substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(3), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F33S. 42(1)-(2B) substituted for s. 42(1)(2) (1.6.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 33(2), 108(2); S.I. 2004/1319, art. 2(d)
F34S. 42(1)(1A) substituted for s. 42(1)-(1B) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(4), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F35Words in s. 42(2) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(5), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F36Words in s. 42(2A) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(6), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F37Words in s. 42(3) substituted (1.6.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 33(3), 108(2); S.I. 2004/1319, art. 2(d)
F38S. 42(3A)(3B) inserted (1.6.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 33(4), 108(2); S.I. 2004/1319, art. 2(d)
F39Words in s. 42(3A)(a) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(7)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F40Words in s. 42(3A)(b) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(7)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F41Words in s. 42(3B) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(8), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F42Words in s. 42(4) substituted (1.6.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 33(5), 108(2); S.I. 2004/1319, art. 2(d)
F43Words in s. 42(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(9), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F44S. 42(4A) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(10), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F45S. 42(4C) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(11), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(3))
F46S. 42(5) repealed (1.6.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 33(7), 108(2), Sch. 8; S.I. 2004/1319, art. 2(d)(f)
(1)The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision as to the procedure to be followed in the exercise of any power conferred or duty imposed by section F49... 42.
(2)Before making any regulations under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult with—
[F50(a)the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime;]
(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers; and
(c)such other persons as he thinks fit.
(3)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and circumstances.
(4)A statutory instrument containing regulations under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]
Textual Amendments
F47S. 42A inserted (1.10.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 34, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 2(c)(i)
F48Words in s. 42A title substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 31(2); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(i)
F49Words in s. 42A(1) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 31(3); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 13)
F50S. 42A(2)(a) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 31(4); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 13)
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Textual Amendments
F51S. 43 omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 81(c), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with art. 9(1)(2))
(1)The Secretary of State may require a chief officer of police of any police force to provide the Secretary of State with information on such matters as may be specified in the requirement, being matters connected with—
(a)the policing of the police area for which that police force is maintained, or
(b)the discharge of the national or international functions of that police force.
(2)A requirement under subsection (1) may, in particular, specify information in the form of statistical data, being data connected with—
(a)the policing of that police area, or
(b)the discharge of the national or international functions of the police force for that area.
(3)A requirement under subsection (1) may specify the form in which information is to be provided.
(4)The Secretary of State may require a chief officer to publish, in such manner as appears to the Secretary of State to be appropriate, information provided in accordance with a requirement under subsection (1).
(5)The Secretary of State may cause a consolidated and classified abstract of any information in the form of statistical data that is provided in accordance with subsection (1) to be prepared and laid before Parliament.]
Textual Amendments
F52 S. 44 substituted for ss. 44. 45 (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 92, 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F52 S. 44 substituted for ss. 44. 45 (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 92, 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)Subject to the following provisions of this section, the Secretary of State shall for each financial year make grants for police purposes to—
[F53(a)police and crime commissioners,]
[F53(aa)the Common Council, and]
(b)the [F54Greater London Authority];
[F55and in those provisions a reference to a grant recipient is a reference to a police and crime commissioner, the Common Council or the Greater London Authority.]
(2)For each financial year the Secretary of State shall with the approval of the Treasury determine—
(a)the aggregate amount of grants to be made under this section, and
(b)the amount of the grant to be made to each [F56grant recipient];
and any determination may be varied by further determinations under this subsection.
(3)The Secretary of State shall prepare a report setting out any determination under subsection (2), and stating the considerations which he took into account in making the determination.
(4)In determining the allocation among [F57grant recipients] of the whole or any part of the aggregate amount of grants, the Secretary of State may exercise his discretion by applying such formulae or other rules as he considers appropriate.
(5)The considerations which the Secretary of State takes into account in making a determination under subsection (2), and the formulae and other rules referred to in subsection (4), may be different for [F58different grant recipients or different classes of grant recipient].
(6)A copy of every report prepared under subsection (3) shall be laid before the House of Commons, and no payment of grant shall be made unless the report setting out the determination of its amount has been approved by resolution of that House.
(7)A grant to a [F59grant recipient] under this section shall be paid at such time, or in instalments of such amounts and at such times, as the Secretary of State may with the approval of the Treasury determine; and any such time may fall within or after the financial year concerned.
[F60(7A)Where the Greater London Authority receives a grant under this section, it shall forthwith account for the grant to the [F61Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] and pay it over to [F62that Office].]
(8)Where in consequence of a further determination under subsection (2) the amount of [F63a grant recipient's] grant is less than the amount already paid to it for the year concerned, a sum equal to the difference shall be paid by [F64the grant recipient] to the Secretary of State on such day as he may specify; but no sum shall be payable by [F65a grant recipient] under this subsection unless the report setting out the further determination has been approved by resolution of the House of Commons.
[F66(9)Where the Greater London Authority is required to pay a sum under subsection (8) above, the Mayor of London may direct the [F67Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] to pay an amount not exceeding that sum to the Greater London Authority on such day as he may specify in the direction.]
Textual Amendments
F53S. 46(1)(a)(aa) substituted for s. 46(1)(a) (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(2)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F54Words in s. 46(1)(b) substituted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 325, Sch. 27 para. 92(2) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F55Words in s. 46(1) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(2)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F56Words in s. 46(2)(b) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(3), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F57Words in s. 46(4) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(4), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F58Words in s. 46(5) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(5), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F59Words in s. 46(7) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(6), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F60S. 46(7A) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 325, Sch. 27 para. 92(4) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F61Words in s. 46(7A) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(7)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F62Words in s. 46(7A) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(7)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F63Words in s. 46(8) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(8)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F64Words in s. 46(8) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(8)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F65Words in s. 46(8) substituted (22.11.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(8)(c), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F66S. 46(9) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 325, Sch. 27 para. 92(5) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F67Words in s. 46(9) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 24(9), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)The Secretary of State may make grants in respect of capital expenditure incurred (or to be incurred) for police purposes [F68by local policing bodies].
(2)Grants under this section may be made either unconditionally or subject to conditions.
(3)The Secretary of State shall exercise his powers under this section only with the approval of the Treasury.
[F69(4)Any grant [F70under subsection (1) in respect of expenditure incurred (or to be incurred) by the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] shall be paid to the Greater London Authority.
(5)Where the Greater London Authority receives a grant under this section, it shall forthwith account for the grant to the [F71Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] and pay it over to [F72that Office].]
Textual Amendments
F68Words in s. 47(1) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(2)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F69S. 47(4)(5) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 325, Sch. 27 para. 93(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F70Words in s. 47(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(2)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F71Words in s. 47(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(2)(c)(i), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F72Words in s. 47(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(2)(c)(ii), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)The Secretary of State may make grants in respect of expenditure incurred (or to be incurred) for police purposes [F73by local policing bodies in connection with safeguarding national security].
(2)Grants under this section may be made either unconditionally or subject to conditions.
(3)The Secretary of State shall exercise his powers under this section only with the approval of the Treasury.
[F74(4)Any grant [F75under subsection (1) in respect of expenditure incurred (or to be incurred) by the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] shall be paid to the Greater London Authority.
(5)Where the Greater London Authority receives a grant under this section, it shall forthwith account for the grant to the [F76Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime] and pay it over to [F77that Office].]
Textual Amendments
F73Words in s. 48(1) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(3)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F74S. 48(4)(5) inserted (3.7.2000) by 1999 c. 29, s. 325, Sch. 27 para. 94(3) (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)); S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F75Words in s. 48(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(3)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F76Words in s. 48(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(3)(c)(i), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F77Words in s. 48(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 25(3)(c)(ii), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F78S. 49 repealed (7.6.2005) by Inquiries Act 2005 (c. 12), s. 51(1), Sch. 2 para. 14, Sch. 3 (with ss. 44, 50); S.I. 2005/1432, art. 2
(1)Subject to the provisions of this section, the Secretary of State may make regulations as to the government, administration and conditions of service of police forces.
(2)Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), regulations under this section may make provision with respect to—
(a)the ranks to be held by members of police forces;
(b)the qualifications for appointment and promotion of members of police forces;
(c)periods of service on probation;
(d)voluntary retirement of members of police forces;
(e)the conduct, efficiency and effectiveness of members of police forces and the maintenance of discipline;
(f)the suspension of members of a police force from membership of that force and from their office as constable;
(g)the maintenance of personal records of members of police forces;
(h)the duties which are or are not to be performed by members of police forces;
(i)the treatment as occasions of police duty of attendance at meetings of the Police Federations and of any body recognised by the Secretary of State for the purposes of section 64;
(j)the hours of duty, leave, pay and allowances of members of police forces; and
(k)the issue, use and return of police clothing, personal equipment and accoutrements.
[F79(2A)Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1) or (2), regulations under this section may make provision with respect to the procedures to be followed by police and crime commissioners, or the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime, in exercising—
(a)powers of suspension, or
(b)powers of removal,
(whether, in the case of the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime, on their own initiative or in compliance with a requirement imposed by the Secretary of State).
(2B)In subsection (2A)—
“power of removal” means—
the power conferred on police and crime commissioners by section 38(3) of the 2011 Act to require chief constables to retire or resign;
the power conferred on the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime by section 48(3) of the 2011 Act to require the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis to retire or resign;
“power of suspension” means—
the power conferred on police and crime commissioners by section 38(2) of the 2011 Act to suspend chief constables;
the power conferred on the Mayor's Office for Policing and Crime by section 48(1) of the 2011 Act to suspend the Commissioner or Deputy Commissioner of Police of the Metropolis;
and for this purpose “2011 Act” means the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011.]
[F80(3)Without prejudice to the powers conferred by this section, regulations under this section shall—
(a)establish, or
(b)make provision for the establishment of,
procedures for the taking of disciplinary proceedings in respect of the conduct, efficiency and effectiveness of members of police forces, including procedures for cases in which such persons may be dealt with by dismissal.]
(4)In relation to any matter as to which provision may be made by regulations under this section, the regulations mayF81... —
(a)authorise or require provision to be made by, or confer discretionary powers on, the Secretary of State, [F82local policing bodies], chief officers of police or other persons, or
(b)authorise or require the delegation by any person of functions conferred on that person by or under the regulations.
(5)Regulations under this section for regulating pay and allowances may be made with retrospective effect to any date specified in the regulations, but nothing in this subsection shall be construed as authorising pay or allowances payable to any person to be reduced retrospectively.
(6)Regulations under this section as to conditions of service shall secure that appointments for fixed terms are not made except where the person appointed holds the rank of superintendent or a higher rank.
[F83(6A)Without prejudice to the powers conferred by this section, regulations under this section may make provision with respect to—
(a)steps to be taken in connection with the appointment of senior officers;
(b)payments to senior officers who cease to hold office before the end of a fixed term appointment.
(6B)In subsection (6A) “senior officer” means—
(a)a member of a police force holding a rank above that of chief superintendent;
(b)the Commissioner of Police for the City of London.]
(7)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and circumstances.
(8)Any statutory instrument containing regulations under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.
Textual Amendments
F79S. 50(2A)(2B) inserted (15.12.2011) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 82(12), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 2(c)
F80S. 50(3) substituted (3.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.12.2008 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 22 para. 3(2); S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 16(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2008/2993, art. 2(1)(h)(i) (with art. 3)
F81Words in s. 50(4) repealed (3.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.12.2008 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 22 para. 3(3), Sch. 28 Pt. 8; S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 16(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2008/2993, art. 2(1)(h)(i) (with art. 3)
F82Words in s. 50(4)(a) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 32; S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F83S. 50(6A)(6B) inserted (19.4.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 3, 116(1); S.I. 2010/999, art. 2(a)
Commencement Information
I1S. 50 wholly in force at 1.4.1999; s. 50(1)(2)(4)-(8) in force at 23.8.1996, see s. 104(1)(2); s. 50(3) in force at 1.4.1999 by S.I. 1999/533, art. 2
(1)The Secretary of State may make regulations as to the government, administration and conditions of service of special constables.
(2)Without prejudice to the generality of subsection (1), regulations under this section may make provision with respect to—
(a)the qualifications for appointment of special constables;
(b)the retirement of special constables;
[F84(ba)the conduct [F85, efficiency and effectiveness] of special constables and the maintenance of discipline;]
(c)the suspension of special constables from their office as constable;
(d)the allowances payable to special constables; and
(e)the application to special constables, subject to such modifications as may be prescribed by the regulations, of any provisions made by or under any enactment relating to the pensions payable to or in respect of members of police forces.
[F86(2A)Without prejudice to the powers conferred by this section, regulations under this section shall—
(a)establish, or
(b)make provision for the establishment of,
procedures for the taking of disciplinary proceedings in respect of the conduct, efficiency and effectiveness of special constables, including procedures for cases in which such persons may be dealt with by dismissal.]
(3)If regulations under this section provide for the calculation of any pension payable to or in respect of special constables by reference to a scale of notional remuneration specified in the regulations, regulations under this section increasing any such notional remuneration may be made with retrospective effect to any date specified in the regulations.
[F87(3A)In relation to any matter as to which provision may be made by regulations under this section, the regulations may—
(a)authorise or require provision to be made by, or confer discretionary powers on, the Secretary of State, [F88local policing bodies], chief officers of police or other persons, or
(b)authorise or require the delegation by any person of functions conferred on that person by or under the regulations.]
(4)Subsections (7) and (8) of section 50 shall apply to regulations under this section.
Textual Amendments
F84S. 51(2)(ba) inserted (1.10.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 35, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 2(c)(ii)
F85Words in s. 51(2)(ba) inserted (3.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.12.2008 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 22 para. 4(2); S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 16(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2008/2993, art. 2(1)(h)(i) (with art. 3)
F86S. 51(2A) inserted (3.11.2008 for specified purposes, 1.12.2008 in so far as not already in force) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 22 para. 4(3); S.I. 2008/2712, art. 2, Sch. para. 16(b) (with art. 4); S.I. 2008/2993, art. 2(1)(h)(i) (with art. 3)
F87S. 51(3A) inserted (25.6.1997) by 1997 c. 50, s. 128(1); S.I. 1997/1377, art. 2(2)(h)
F88Words in s. 51(3A)(a) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 33; S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
(1)The Secretary of State may make regulations as to the government, administration and conditions of service of police cadets.
[F89(1A)In relation to any matter as to which provision may be made by regulations under this section, the regulations may—
(a)authorise or require provision to be made by, or confer discretionary powers on, the Secretary of State, [F90local policing bodies], chief officers of police or other persons, or
(b)authorise or require the delegation by any person of functions conferred on that person by or under the regulations.]
(2)Subsections (5), (7) and (8) of section 50 shall apply to regulations under this section.
Textual Amendments
F89S. 52(1A) inserted (25.6.1997) by 1997 c. 50, s. 128(2); S.I. 1997/1377, art. 2(2)(h)
F90Words in s. 52(1A)(a) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 34; S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
[F92(1)]The Secretary of State may make regulations requiring equipment provided or used for police purposes to satisfy such requirements as to design and performance as may be prescribed in the regulations.
[F93(1A)The Secretary of State may by regulations make any or all of the following provisions—
(a)provision requiring [F94one or more police forces], when using equipment for the purposes specified in the regulations to use only—
(i)the equipment which is specified in the regulations;
(ii)equipment which is of a description so specified; or
(iii)equipment which is of a type approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with the regulations;
(b)provision requiring [F95one or more police forces] to keep available for use the equipment falling within paragraph (a)(i) to (iii) which is specified or described in, or approved in accordance with, the regulations;
(c)provision prohibiting [F96one or more police forces] from using equipment of a type approved as mentioned in paragraph (a)(iii) except—
(i)where the conditions subject to which the approval was given are satisfied; and
(ii)in accordance with the other terms of that approval;
(d)provision requiring equipment used by [F97one or more police forces] to comply, in the case of all police forces, with such conditions as may be specified in the regulations, or as may be approved by the Secretary of State in accordance with the regulations;
(e)provision prohibiting [F98one or more police forces] from using equipment specified in the regulations, or any equipment of a description so specified.
[F99(1AA)The Secretary of State may, by regulations, make provision about the arrangements which must be, may be, or must not be, used for the provision of equipment for use for police purposes.
(1AB)The regulations may, in particular—
(a)make provision about the nature or terms of such arrangements, or
(b)prescribe arrangements which may be, or must be, used.]
(1B)The Secretary of State shall not make any regulations under subsection (1A) [F100or (1AA)] unless he considers it necessary to do so for the purpose of promoting the efficiency and effectiveness [F101of one or more police forces].
(2)Before making any regulations under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult with—
[F102(a)such 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;]
(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers; and
(c)such other persons as he thinks fit.
(2A)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and circumstances.
(2B)A statutory instrument containing any regulations under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.
(2C)In this section “equipment” includes—
[F103(za)software;]
(a)vehicles; and
(b)headgear and protective and other clothing.]
Textual Amendments
F91Words in s. 53 title inserted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 93(2), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F92S. 53 renumbered as s. 53(1) (1.4.1998) by 1997 c. 50, s. 134(1), Sch. 9 para. 75; S.I. 1997/354, art. 2(2)(ay)
F93S. 53(1A)-(2C) substituted for s. 53(2)(3) (1.10.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), ss. 6, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 2(a)
F94Words in s. 53(1A)(a) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(2)(a), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F95Words in s. 53(1A)(b) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(2)(a), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F96Words in s. 53(1A)(c) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(2)(a), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F97Words in s. 53(1A)(d) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(2)(b), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F98Words in s. 53(1A)(e) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(2)(a), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F99S. 53(1AA)(1AB) inserted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 93(3), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F100Words in s. 53(1B) inserted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 93(4), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F101Words in s. 53(1B) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(3), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
F102S. 53(2)(a)-(ab) substituted for s. 53(2)(a) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 93(5), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 4)
F103S. 53(2C)(za) inserted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 11(4), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(b)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C1S. 53 extended (1.7.2004) by Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (c. 20), ss. 44, 45; S.I. 2004/1572, art. 3(aa)(bb)
(1)The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision requiring [F105one or more police forces]—
(a)to adopt particular procedures or practices; or
(b)to adopt procedures or practices of a particular description.
(2)Before making any regulations under this section, the Secretary of State shall seek advice from—
(a)the chief inspector of constabulary; and
F106(b). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(3)Before seeking advice under subsection (2) the Secretary of State shall consult about his proposal to do so with—
[F107(a)such 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;]
(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers.
(4)A request for the purposes of subsection (2) may specify a period within which the requested advice is to be provided; and, if a period is so specified, the requested advice must be provided within it.
F108(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(6)The Secretary of State shall not make any regulations under this section requiring the adoption of any procedure or practice unless—
F109(a). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(b)the advice of the chief inspector of constabulary states that that inspector is satisfied as to the matters mentioned in subsection (7); and
(c)the Secretary of State himself is satisfied as to those matters.
(7)Those matters are—
(a)that the adoption of that procedure or practice is necessary in order to [F110—
(i)promote the efficiency and effectiveness of a police force, or
(ii)] facilitate the carrying out by members of any two or more police forces of joint or co-ordinated operations;
(b)that the making of regulations is necessary for securing the adoption of that procedure or practice; and
(c)that securing the adoption of that procedure or practice is in the national interest.
(8)Regulations under this section may make different provision for different cases and circumstances.
(9)A statutory instrument containing the first regulations to be made under this section shall not be made unless a draft of the regulations has been laid before Parliament and approved by a resolution of each House.
(10)A statutory instrument containing any other regulations under this section shall be subject to annulment in pursuance of a resolution of either House of Parliament.]
Textual Amendments
F104S. 53A inserted (1.10.2002) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30) {ss. 7}, 108(2)-(5); S.I. 2002/2306, art. 2(a)
F105Words in s. 53A(1) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 12(2), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(c)
F106S. 53A(2)(b) omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 35(2); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(i)
F107Ss. 53A(3)(a)-(ab) substituted for s. 53A(3)(a) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 35(3); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 14)
F108S. 53A(5) omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 35(4); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(i)
F109S. 53A(6)(a) omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 35(5); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(i)
F110Words in s. 53A(7)(a) inserted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 12(3), 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(c)
(1)Her Majesty may appoint such number of inspectors (to be known as “Her Majesty’s Inspectors of Constabulary”) as the Secretary of State may with the consent of the Treasury determine, and of the persons so appointed one may be appointed as chief inspector of constabulary.
(2)The inspectors of constabulary shall inspect, and report F111... on the efficiency and effectiveness of, every police force maintained for a police area F112... F113... F114....
F115(2A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F116(2B)The Secretary of State may at any time require the inspectors of constabulary to carry out an inspection under this section of a police force maintained for any police area; and a requirement under this subsection may include a requirement for the inspection to be confined to a particular part of the force in question, to particular matters or to particular activities of that force.]
[F117(2BA)The local policing body for a police area may at any time request the inspectors of constabulary to carry out an inspection under this section of a police force maintained for that police area; and a request under this subsection may include a request for the inspection to be confined to a particular part of the force in question, to particular matters or to particular activities of that force.
(2BB)Where a local policing body requests the inspectors to carry out an inspection under subsection (2BA), the body must pay to the inspectors such reasonable costs incurred or to be incurred in connection with the inspection as the inspectors may require.]
F118(2C). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
[F119(2D)It shall be the duty of the chief inspector of constabulary—
(a)to enter into arrangements with the Independent Police Complaints Commission for the purpose of securing cooperation, in the carrying out of their respective functions, between the inspectors of constabulary and that Commission; and
(b)to ensure that inspectors of constabulary provide that Commission with all such assistance and co-operation as may be required by those arrangements or as otherwise appears to the chief inspector to be appropriate for facilitating the carrying out by that Commission of its functions.]
(3)The inspectors of constabulary shall carry out such other duties for the purpose of furthering police efficiency and effectiveness as the Secretary of State may from time to time direct.
F120(3A). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(4)The chief inspector of constabulary shall in each year submit to the Secretary of State a report [F121on the carrying out of inspections under this section], and the [F122chief inspector] shall lay a copy of that report before Parliament.
[F123(4A)A report under subsection (4) must include the chief inspector's assessment of the efficiency and effectiveness of policing in England and Wales for the year in respect of which the report is prepared.]
(5)The inspectors of constabulary shall be paid such salary and allowances as the Secretary of State may with the consent of the Treasury determine.
[F124(6)Schedule 4A (which makes further provision about the inspectors of constabulary) has effect.]
Textual Amendments
F111Words in s. 54(2) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(2), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F112Word in s. 54(2) repealed (1.4.2002) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 137, 138(2), Sch. 7 Pt. 3; S.I. 2002/533, art. 2(e)
F113Words in s. 54(2) repealed (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 71(2), Sch. 17 Pt. 2; S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. paras. 10, 13(y)
F114Words in s. 54(2) repealed (14.7.2008) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), s. 153(7), Sch. 28 Pt. 8; S.I. 2008/1586, art. 2(1), Sch. 1 para. 50(7)(a)
F115S. 54(2A) omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(3), 157(1); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(a)
F116S. 54(2B) substituted (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 71(3); S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. para. 10
F117S. 54(2BA)(2BB) inserted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(4), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F118S. 54(2C) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(5), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F119S. 54(2D) inserted (1.4.2004) by Police Reform Act 2002 (c. 30), s. 108(2), Sch. 7 para. 15; S.I. 2004/913, art. 2(e)
F120S. 54(3A) repealed (19.4.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 2(2), 116(1), Sch. 8 Pt. 1; S.I. 2010/999, arts. 2(d), 4 (as amended by S.I. 2010/1986, art. 3)
F121Words in s. 54(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(6)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F122Words in s. 54(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(6)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F123S. 54(4A) inserted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 83(7), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F124S. 54(6) inserted (1.4.2007) by Police and Justice Act 2006 (c. 48), ss. 29(1), 53(1); S.I. 2007/709, art. 3(m) (with art. 6)
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C2S. 54 applied (1.4.2002) by 2001 c. 16, ss. 93(1), 138(2); S.I. 2002/533, art. 2(a)
C3Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (7.4.2005) by Commissioners for Revenue and Customs Act 2005 (c. 11), ss. 27(2)(a)(i), 53(1); S.I. 2005/1126, art. 2(1)
C4Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), ss. 29(2)(a), 58(1) (with s. 36(4))
[F125(1)The inspectors of constabulary must arrange for any report prepared under section 54 to be published in such manner as appears to the inspectors to be appropriate.]
[F126(2)But the inspectors of constabulary must exclude from publication under subsection (1) anything that the inspectors consider—
(a)would be against the interests of national security, or
(b)might jeopardise the safety of any person.]
[F126(2A)The inspectors must disclose to the Secretary of State anything excluded from publication by virtue of subsection (2).]
[F127(3)The inspectors of constabulary must send a copy of the published report to—
(a)the Secretary of State,
(b)the local policing body maintaining the police force to which the report relates,
(c)the chief officer of police of that police force, and
(d)any police and crime panel established under section 28 of the Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 for the police area of that police force.]
(4)The [F128local policing body] shall invite the chief officer of police to submit comments on the published report to the [F129body] before such date as it may specify.
(5)The [F130local policing body] shall prepare comments on the published report and shall arrange for—
(a)its comments,
(b)any comments submitted by the chief officer of police in accordance with subsection (4), and
(c)any response which the [F131body] has to the comments submitted by the chief officer of police,
to be published in such manner as appears to the [F131body] to be appropriate.
(6)The [F132local policing body] F133 ... shall send a copy of any document published under subsection (5) to the Secretary of State.
F134(7). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F135(8). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F125S. 55(1) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(2), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F126S. 55(2)(2A) substituted for s. 55(2) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(3), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F127S. 55(3) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(4), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F128Words in s. 55(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(5)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F129Word in s. 55(4) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(5)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F130Words in s. 55(5) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(6)(a), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F131Words in s. 55(5)(c) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(6)(b), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F132Words in s. 55(6) substituted (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(7), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
F133Words in s. 55(6) repealed (3.7.2000) by virtue of 1999 c. 29, ss. 325, 423, Sch. 27 para. 96, Sch. 34 Pt. VII (with Sch. 12 para. 9(1)) which provides that the words “(except where he is himself the police authority)" shall be repealed; S.I. 2000/1648, art. 2, Sch.
F134S. 55(7) repealed (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 72, Sch. 17 Pt. 2; S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. paras. 10, 13(y)
F135S. 55(8) omitted (16.1.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), ss. 84(8), 157(1); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C3Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (7.4.2005) by Commissioners for Revenue and Customs Act 2005 (c. 11), ss. 27(2)(a)(i), 53(1); S.I. 2005/1126, art. 2(1)
C4Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), ss. 29(2)(a), 58(1) (with s. 36(4))
C5S. 55 applied (with modifications) (1.7.2004) by Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (c. 20), s. 63(6); S.I. 2004/1572, art. 3(tt)
(1)The Secretary of State may appoint assistant inspectors of constabulary.
(2)Members of a police force may be appointed by the Secretary of State to be assistant inspectors of constabulary or to be staff officers to the inspectors of constabulary.
(3)Persons appointed under this section shall be paid such salary and allowances as the Secretary of State may with the consent of the Treasury determine.
Modifications etc. (not altering text)
C3Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (7.4.2005) by Commissioners for Revenue and Customs Act 2005 (c. 11), ss. 27(2)(a)(i), 53(1); S.I. 2005/1126, art. 2(1)
C4Ss. 54-56: power to apply conferred (21.7.2009) by Borders, Citizenship and Immigration Act 2009 (c. 11), ss. 29(2)(a), 58(1) (with s. 36(4))
C6S. 56 modified (29.4.2005) by The Revenue and Customs (Inspections) Regulations 2005 (S.I. 2005/1133), regs. 1, 10(1)
(1)The Secretary of State may provide and maintain, or may contribute to the provision or maintenance of, such organisations, facilities and services as he considers necessary or expedient for promoting the efficiency or effectiveness of the police.
[F136(1A)The power conferred by subsection (1) includes power to give financial assistance to any person in connection with the provision or maintenance of such organisations, facilities and services as are mentioned in that subsection.
(1B)Financial assistance under subsection (1)—
(a)may, in particular, be given in the form of a grant, loan or guarantee or investment in a body corporate; and
(b)may be given subject to terms and conditions determined by the Secretary of State;
but any financial assistance under that subsection other than a grant requires the consent of the Treasury.
(1C)Terms and conditions imposed under subsection (1B)(b) may include terms and conditions as to repayment with or without interest.
(1D)Any sums received by the Secretary of State by virtue of terms and conditions imposed under that subsection are to be paid into the Consolidated Fund.]
(2)Charges may be made for the use of facilities and services provided by the Secretary of State (or by organisations provided or maintained by him) under subsection (1).
(3)The Secretary of State may by regulations make provision for requiring [F137one or more police forces] to use specified facilities or services, or facilities or services of a specified description, (whether or not provided under subsection (1)) if he considers that it would be in the interests of the efficiency or effectiveness of the police for them to do so.
[F138(3A)Regulations under this section relating to all police forces may also require the [F139Serious Organised Crime Agency] to use the specified facilities or services, or the facilities or services of a specified description, if the Secretary of State considers that it would be in the interests of the efficiency or effectiveness of the [F140Agency for the Agency ] to do so.]
(4)Before making regulations under this section, the Secretary of State shall consult—
[F141(a)such 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,]
(b)the Association of Chief Police Officers; and
[F142(c)if the regulations relate to the Serious Organised Crime Agency, that Agency.]
F143(5). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
F143(6). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Textual Amendments
F136S. 57(1A)-(1D) inserted (8.5.2008) by Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008 (c. 4), ss. 128(1), 153(1)(c) (with s. 128(2))
F137Words in s. 57(3) substituted (29.1.2010) by Policing and Crime Act 2009 (c. 26), ss. 13, 116(1); S.I. 2010/125, art. 2(d)
F138S. 57(3A) inserted (1.4.1998) by 1997 c. 50, s. 134(1), Sch. 9 para. 78(2); S.I. 1998/354, art. 2(2)(ay)
F139Words in s. 57(3A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 73(2)(a); S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. para. 10
F140Words in s. 57(3A) substituted (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 73(2)(b); S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. para. 10
F141S. 57(4)(a)-(ab) substituted for s. 57(4)(a) (16.1.2012) by Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 36(2); S.I. 2011/3019, art. 3, Sch. 1 (with Sch. 2 para. 15)
F142S. 57(4)(c) substituted (1.4.2006) by Serious Organised Crime and Police Act 2005 (c. 15), s. 178(8), Sch. 4 para. 73(3); S.I. 2006/378, art. 4(1), Sch. para. 10
F143S. 57(5)(6) omitted (22.11.2012) by virtue of Police Reform and Social Responsibility Act 2011 (c. 13), s. 157(1), Sch. 16 para. 36(3); S.I. 2012/2892, art. 2(i)
The Secretary of State may set up such bodies and take such other steps as appear to him to be necessary or expedient for the purpose of undertaking research into matters affecting the efficiency or effectiveness of the police.
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