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Written and verbal advice
17.9
The TAP provided briefings and advice on the following topics among others:
a) End-to-end encryption;
b) Unmanned aerial vehicles/drones;
c) Data integrity checks and Blockchain;
d) Hashing and Machine Learning;
e) Internet Connection Records.
17.10
Technical support was provided to inspections (including on issues that cannot be described
at this level of classification) and a number of ad hoc queries by Inspectors and Judicial
Commissioners were addressed informally. TAP members attended a variety of inspections
in person.
17.11
The TAP provided crucial support to the Commissioner and IPCO during a serious
compliance failure investigation, which had significant national security implications. IPCO
investigated serious compliance risks associated with certain MI5 technical environments
(see chapter 8); the TAP was requested to provide technical assistance to IPCO over an
extended period. A member of the TAP was closely involved with the inspections which
took place at MI5 and assisted the inspectorate in interviewing engineers and other
technical experts at MI5 about the ways in which the technical environment was processing
warranted data.
17.12
The TAP has contributed to IPCO’s participation in GCHQ’s Equities Process
17.13
TAP members were given briefings on Internet Connection Records (ICR) including the
legislative background and operational context and the implementation plans for a trial
of legal acquisition and use of ICRs for law enforcement purposes. They also visited
the National Crime Agency (NCA) for further discussion and a demonstration of the
communications data application process. The panel is keen to have continued involvement
in the plans for technical development. The TAP provided guidance for IPCO staff on ICR.
17.14
The TAP held a meeting with the Head of the Accelerated Capability Environment (ACE),
a capability mobilised by the Home Office. ACE/VIVACE works with over 150 entities from
both academia and industry to tackle complex problems for security questions through
innovation, engagement, collaboration and trust. This briefing covered the processes used
to make innovative use of technologies and the forward-looking horizon-scanning work
they undertake.
17.15
The TAP discussed various issues with the Chief Scientific Adviser for National Security,
highlighting key research activities, industry and academic engagement as well as a
presentation on the science strategy in the changing threat environment.
17.16
The TAP has participated in international activity, for example:
a) the Five Eyes Intelligence Oversight and Review Council conference,
b) briefings for the Australian Inspector General and the Australian Independent National
Security Legislation Monitor,
c) a conference in Copenhagen between several EU countries, sharing ideas and
methodology and addressing issues relating to oversight and technology in
different countries,