Abstract

This chapter discusses IPA2016, which is the second biggest overhaul of communication interception law since the interception of telecommunications which was first put on a statutory basis in the Interception of Communications Act 1985. It explains how IPA2016 consolidates and elaborates the framework established in RIPA2000 and it retains key policy principles that have always underpinned UK interception law. The chapter also notes the purpose of IPA2016 in distinguishing tools available to both law enforcement agencies and the intelligence community from those tools available only to the intelligence community. The chapter looks at references based on the draft versions and pending publication of final versions of multiple Codes of Practice that support IPA2016. It reviews scenario examples contained in the Codes of Practice that present guidance about the interception procedures to be followed by public authorities.