Issue - meetings

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 Policy Development Panel (report of the Assistant Director Regulatory and Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for RIPA enclosed).

Consideration was given to the report of the Assistant Director – Regulatory which sought approval for the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 – Partnership Policy for South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership.

The Portfolio Holder – Corporate, Governance and Communications presented the report.

The following points were raised:

·       The report stated that information was retained for six years – what happened to the information after this period?

o   Officers advised that the information was automatically deleted from the public record, in line with the Retention Policy.

DECISION:

1)    That the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) 2000 - Partnership Policy be approved;

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 would be subject to the usual approval process in line with the Constitution.

(Other options considered:

·       To retain independent, sovereign policy to meet the obligations imposed by RIPA on South Holland District Council.

·       This option had not been explored as economies of scale, efficiencies and shared learning could be optimised by harmonising our approach to RIPA across the Partnership. This sub regional approach also accorded with the objectives set out in the Memorandum of Agreement and the Business Case for the South and East Lincolnshire Councils Partnership.

Reasons for decision:

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

·       To ensure Members were informed about RIPA activity, policy and procedures demonstrates good governance and an organisational commitment to the obligations imposed by RIPA on public bodies).