Decision details

To seek approval from Cabinet for the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 – Partnership Policy for South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership following consideration at scrutiny committee.

1. That Cabinet considered the report, policy and feedback from Corporate and Community Overview and Scrutiny Committee and approved the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000 - Partnership Policy.

2. That the Assistant Director Regulatory / Senior Responsible Officer, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder, be given delegated authority to make such amendments to this policy as may from time to time be required in order to (i) reference any links or amended links to other documents as may be required; and (ii) reflect any issues over which the Council has no discretion including, but not limited to, references to any legislative changes and amended guidance. Any material amendments to the policy will be subject to the usual approval process in line with the Constitution.

To ensure that Members are aware of the duties imposed on the Council by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 and the requirement to adopt a Policy that is up to date, relevant and fit for purpose.

Ensuring Members are informed about RIPA activity, policy and procedures demonstrates good governance and an organisational commitment to the obligations imposed by RIPA on public bodies.

Revert to an independent, sovereign policy position to meet the obligations imposed by RIPA on Boston Borough Council, or retain the Joint RIPA Policy arrangements with East Lindsey District Council.

Neither of these options are recommended as economies of scale, efficiencies and shared learning can be optimised by harmonising our approach to RIPA across the Partnership. This sub regional approach also accords with the objectives set out in the Memorandum of Agreement and the Business Case for the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership.