IPCO inspections of informant policies
The Panel is concerned that the policies and procedures relating to the use of informants by law enforcement agencies still allow scope for corrupt practices, and it recommends that the Investigatory Powers Commissioner takes this into consideration during inspections.
How was this assessed?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO) independently oversees the use of these powers and conducts annual inspections to ensure compliance by law enforcement agencies. Experienced inspectors will also carry out further ad hoc inspections as required, should particular concerns arise, and overall findings are reported publicly in IPCO's Annual Report. Handling the risks associated with the use of CHIS is a key focus for IPCO. Inspections include interviews with those in handler and controller roles and detailed scrutiny of the paperwork around the authorisation and management of CHIS, to ensure that risks are properly understood and mitigated by individual agencies. The new Code of Practice on CHIS was published on 13 December 2022 and the relevant guidance and manuals are currently being updated accordingly.
Published Evidence
Published assessments of implementation progress from inspectorates, select committees, official progress reports, and other sources. Check the source type badge to see whether each assessment is independent or government self-reported.
The Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Act 2021 provided a new statutory framework. A new Code of Practice for CHIS was published 13 December 2022. IPCO confirmed that handling risks associated with CHIS use is a 'key focus' of its annual inspections of law enforcement agencies.
View detailed findings
CHIS framework overhauled through the 2021 Act and 2022 Code of Practice. IPCO oversight of informant policies is ongoing as recommended.