HL Deb 05 June 1996 vol 572 c125WA
The Marquess of Ailesbury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is the wording of the warrant which police must obtain when wishing to enter private premises uninvited.

The Lord Chancellor (Lord Mackay of Clashfern)

Sections 15 and 16 of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1994 have effect in relation to the issue to constables under any enactment (including any Act passed after this Act) of warrants to enter and search premises. Section 15(5) provides that a warrant shall authorise an entry on one occasion only. Section 15(6) provides that a warrant shall specify the name of the person who applies for it, the date on which it is issued, the enactment under which it is issued, the premises to be searched, and shall identify, so far as is practicable, the articles or persons sought. Section 16(2) provides that a warrant may authorise persons to accompany any constable who is executing it. Section 16(3) provides that entry and search under a warrant must be within one month from the date of its issue.