Response statement: police use of surveillance

Commenting on the use of surveillance by Cambridgeshire Constabulary, Police and Crime Commissioner Sir Graham Bright said:

“I am aware that surveillance tactics are used generally in policing within the context of keeping people safe.

“I am not made aware of the specifics of cases – the Chief Constable must retain the operational independence for using the tactics he feels are appropriate.

“The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 sets out the legal framework that governs surveillance and investigation, including the use of human intelligence sources. There are very stringent processes and procedures in place to ensure the appropriate use of surveillance tactics.

“The Office of Surveillance Commissioners (OSC) oversees the conduct of covert surveillance and covert human intelligence sources by public authorities in accordance with the Police Act 1997 and the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (RIPA).

“I have been reassured that the Constabulary was acting within the legal framework set out by the legislation.”