§ Lord Bachasked Her Majesty's Government:
When they expect to implement the recommendation, in the report for 1997 of the Interception of Communications Commissioner, that nominated officials in the law enforcement agencies be permitted to modify serious crime warrants on behalf of the Secretary of State where the warrants are specifically endorsed to permit it. [HL1689]
§ Lord Williams of MostynWe intend to implement the change, as recommended by the Interception Commissioner, on 1 April. Thereafter, nominated senior officials in the intercepting agencies will be empowered to modify existing interception warrants by the insertion of new addresses in urgent cases. This is in accordance with Section 5(4) of the Interception of Communications Act 1985.
The change will not enable officials to issue interception warrants against new targets. Interception warrants may only lawfully be issued by (or on the express authorisation of) my right honourable friend the Home Secretary.