Explanatory note

This Order appoints 24th May 1999 as the date on which the code of practice made under section 53A(1)(a) of the Northern Ireland (Emergency Provisions) Act 1996 (“the 1996 Act”) will come into operation.

By virtue of section 53A(2)(a) of the 1996 Act, the code applies in connection with the audio recording of interviews held by police officers of persons detained under section 14(1)(a) or (b) of the Prevention of Terrorism (Temporary Provisions) Act 1989; and interviews held by police officers in such other circumstances as may be specified in an order under section 53A(1)(b) of the 1996 Act.

The code of practice will be published by The Stationery Office Limited; copies may be obtained from The Stationery Office Bookshops.