Bill · started in the Lords
Powers of Entry etc. Bill [HL]
A Bill to regulate powers of entry and powers in relation to documents; and for connected purposes.
In progress
Current stage: 3rd reading (Lords)
The story so farThe Powers of Entry etc. Bill was introduced in the House of Lords on 7 November 2007 by Lord Selsdon (Conservative). It is now at third reading in the House of Lords. Third reading is the final vote in this chamber; if the bill passes, it moves to the other House.
What the bill does
<p>The Bill aims to regulate and standardise powers to enter land or property. It also proposes to allow officials to seize or to compel production of documents. These are already available to officials under more than 150 specified Acts of Parliament. </p><p>Lord Selsdon introduced a similar Bill in the parliamentary session 2005-06 but it was dropped. </p><p><strong>Key areas</strong></p><ul><li>Limits are placed on the numbers of officials permitted to enter a premises and the times when entry may take place</li><li>Power of entry may only be exercised in compliance with a code of practice. This specifies the term of notice that must be given, form of identification to be carried and the conduct of inspection or search</li><li>Restrictions are placed on powers to seize or compel production of documents or electronic records</li><li>The Bill does not apply to police officers, members of the Security or Intelligence Services or officers of HM Revenue & Customs.</li></ul>
Progress through Parliament
- 1st reading Lords 7 Nov 2007
- 2nd reading Lords 14 Dec 2007
- Committee stage Lords 26 Jun 2008
- Report stage Lords 10 Jul 2008
- 3rd reading Lords 17 Jul 2008
Source: the official bill page. Last updated 25 Feb 2009.