§ Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what training is given to officers in his Department and in public bodies ultimately answerable to him, who have powers of search and entry, with regard to surveillance techniques and methods of gaining entry into business premises and private homes.
§ Mr. Alison[pursuant to his reply, 1 November 1979, c. 650]: In addition to the Northern Ireland Office, my right hon. Friend is responsible for the Northern Ireland Departments and other public bodies in Northern Ireland, officers of which may have powers of search and entry under various statutes. Specialist training is given to officers operating under health and safety at work legislation and under legislation for which the Department of Health and Social Services is responsible. Officers of other Departments and public bodies are given, as part of their general training, familiarisation with the relevant legislation which in certain cases may require that due notice is given to an owner or occupier of premises or land before entry is effected.