ACPO comment on HMIC review of national police units which provide intelligence on criminality associated with protest

ACPO lead on organised crime Chief Constable Jon Murphy said:

“This review recognises that undercover officers play a critical role gathering evidence and intelligence to protect communities from harm. It is one of the most challenging areas of operational activity undertaken by the police service. When used correctly it is lawful, ethical, necessary and proportionate. It is important the HMIC has recognised that the use of undercover tactics in the context of protest and campaigns is small by comparison with areas such as organised crime.

“The police service would welcome increased oversight in this critical area of policing. The bodies comprising the National Domestic Extremism Unit were placed under the Metropolitan Police to provide lead force governance in January 2011. The ACPO President has suggested increased judicial oversight of undercover operations and HMIC now suggests strengthening prior approval for intelligence development through the Office of the Surveillance Commissioner. We hope these recommendations can ensure that the public have confidence in the use of these tactics to keep communities safe.”

A copy of the report can be found here: http://www.hmic.gov.uk/publication/review-of-national-police-units-which-provide-intelligence-on-criminality-associated-with-protest-20120202/

For more information please contact:

ACPO Press Office
Association of Chief Police Officers
e: press.office@acpo.pnn.police.uk