HL Deb 26 February 1997 vol 578 c91WA
The Marquess of Ailesbury

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, when the police have obtained film by bugging private premises, they retain unrestricted control over its subsequent use.

Baroness Blatch

Not in all cases. Some material obtained through the use of intrusive surveillance is used only for intelligence purposes and will remain in control of the police. However, other material is used as part of the evidence in court proceedings. In those cases, the material will be made available to the prosecution and will also be disclosed to the defence. If it is not to be used but there is a prosecution, it will form part of the unused material and it will be a matter for the courts to decide how it should be used.