Explanatory note

This Order amends the Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Communications Data) Order 2010 (“the 2010 Order”).

The 2010 Order designates additional public authorities who may grant an authorisation or give a notice in respect of the acquisition and disclosure of communications data, for the purposes of Chapter 2 of Part 1 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. The 2010 Order also specifies the persons within those organisations (“designated persons”) who may grant an authorisation or give a notice for particular purposes, and specifies additional purposes for which communications data may be acquired.

This Order adds an additional purpose, so that the Financial Conduct Authority and Prudential Regulation Authority may obtain communications data for the purpose of exercising functions relating to the regulation of financial services and markets or to financial stability.

The Order also removes thirteen public authorities from the lists of those in the 2010 Order. These thirteen authorities will no longer have powers to acquire communications data under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000.