FOI request (FOIR-480806181)

Request 5 - The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA)

Requested Tue 24 January 2023
Responded  Fri 27 January 2023

Part 5 of these unanswered points and data processing.

I would like you to explain why, if you have stated 'no information held', do you list 'RIPA List of Authorising Officers - Directed Surveillance' here:

https://www.hastings.gov.uk/content/my_council/decisions_how/policies_strategies/pdfs/ripa/Appendix_1_-_RIPA_List_of_Authorising_Officers_(2018).pdf

Response

As an organisation that can carry out surveillance under RIPA legislation, Hastings Borough Council is required to have RIPA policies and procedures in place and ensure that staff are trained in the use of RIPA. This includes maintaining a list of authorising officers.

The requirement for policies and procedures, staff training and regular inspections by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office (IPCO) stands, even though Hastings Borough Council has not made use of its powers under RIPA.