Warrants to enter premises15
1
A justice of the peace who on sworn information in writing is satisfied that the circumstances in paragraph (2) apply may issue a warrant authorising a British sea-fishery officer to enter any premises, if necessary using reasonable force, and to take with that officer such persons as appear to be necessary.
2
The circumstances are that—
a
there are reasonable grounds to believe that any documents or other items which a British sea-fishery officer has power under article 14 to inspect are on the premises;
b
the inspection of such documents or other items is likely to disclose evidence of the commission of an offence under this Order or an equivalent provision; and
c
either—
i
entry to the premises has been or is likely to be refused and notice of intention to apply for a warrant has been given to the occupier;
ii
an application for entry, or the giving of notice, would defeat the object of the entry;
iii
the premises are unoccupied; or
iv
the occupier is temporarily absent and it might defeat the object of the entry to await that person’s return.