HC Deb 05 December 1979 vol 975 c194W
Mr. Alfred Morris

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what, if any, listening devices are used in investigations into alleged fraud.

Mr. Whitelaw

The use of a listening device is an operational matter for decision by the chief officer of police concerned. The Home Office has asked chief officers to satisfy themselves that, when equipment is used to help the police to confirm or dispel a suspicion of serious crime, such use is justified in all the circumstances and is authorised at an appropriately senior level in the force.