HC Deb 25 October 1979 vol 972 c249W
Mr. Higgins

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects

Persons authorised Number Statutory authority
HM Fire Service Inspectors 37 Fire Precautions Act 1971: section 19
Home Office Drugs Branch Inspectors 9 Misuse of Drugs Act 1971: section 23(1)
Prison Officers 14,209 Prison Act 1952: sections 8 and 23

In addition, the Secretary of State has power under section 15 of the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 to authorise Post Office officials acting as his agents to apply for a warrant to enter and search specified premises. In October to date 17 Post Office officials have been so authorised.