Explanatory note

This Order brings into force the code of practice on Equipment Interference prepared under section 71 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (c. 23) (“the 2000 Act”). The purpose of the code is to set out guidance relating to interference with property authorised under section 5 of the Intelligence Services Act 1994 (“the 1994 Act”).

Under section 72(1) of the 2000 Act, a person exercising any power or duty in relation to which provision may be made by a code of practice under section 71 must, in doing so, have regard to the code’s provisions (as far as applicable).

The code also sets out guidance relating to interference authorised under section 7 of the 1994 Act.

The code is laid before Parliament with this Order. A full regulatory impact assessment has not been produced for this Order as no impact on business or the voluntary sector is foreseen.

The code of practice will be published by the Stationery Office and copies may be obtained from the Stationery Office bookshops or online shop. The revised code of practice will also be available on the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Codes of Practice pages of the gov.uk website.