Written question asked by Michael Meacher (Labour) on Tuesday, 10 May 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 12 May 2011. It was answered by Lord Herbert of South Downs (Conservative) on Monday, 23 May 2011 on behalf of the Home Office.

National Public Order Intelligence Unit

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether she has any plans to make a statement to the House following the publication of the report of the review by Her Majesty's inspectorate of constabulary into the operational accountability of undercover work conducted by the National Public Order Intelligence Unit and how intelligence activity is authorised in law;

Answer: Her Majesty's inspectorate of constabulary (HMIC) is specifically considering the rote of authorising officers in relation to intelligence activity as part of its inquiry, supported by advice from senior Queen's counsel as to the applicable law. The concept of proportionality applicable to the activities of the National Public Order Intelligence Unit is being assessed against requirements of the European convention on human rights and the Human Rights Act 1998.The Government have given a commitment to ensure that the findings of the review will be published by HMIC and will await the outcome of the review before taking a decision on whether a statement to the House is appropriate.

Secondary information