Conclusion
90. The interception of communications is an invaluable weapon for the
purpose set out in section 5(3) of RIPA and, in particular, in the battle against
terrorism and serious crime. The task of the agencies working in this field has
become much more difficult and complex as a result of the proliferation of
mobile telephones and the greater sophistication of criminals and terrorists.
RIPA brought the legislation up to date in the light of new developments in
technology in the communications industry, such as e-mail, satellite telephones,
radio pagers and the like and the proliferation of mobile telephones. An
individual warrant may permit the interception of the person named in the
warrant or named premises. The law was simplified in relation to the
implementation of warrants, the issue of emergency warrants, their duration
and their discharge. These changes have increased the efficiency of the
enforcement agencies and the speed with which, in appropriate circumstances,
they may act but in each case they are covered by section 15 safeguards.
91. The Security Service have reported to me that the interception of
communications is of invaluable assistance to their work. Over the past year
intelligence gained from interception warrants has contributed to a number of
successful operations both in the Service’s work on national security and its
work on serious crime, where it acts in support of law enforcement agencies.
Intelligence gained from interception warrants has helped the Service’s
investigation of international terrorism in the aftermath of the events of 11
September 2001.
92. GCHQ report that during the period of this report interception has
continued to play a critical role in promoting and protecting vital UK national
interests including the fight against terrorism, combating serious crime and
supporting UK forces deployed overseas.
93. The Metropolitan Police Special Branch tell me that since the enactment
of RIPA in October 2000 almost half of their operations involving interception
of communications have resulted in the arrest and prosecution of persons
engaged in serious criminal activity, and in many of the other cases the
intelligence obtained has led to the disruption of the criminal enterprises of the
targets and their close associates. Since the 11th September there has been a
significant increase in the operations conducted by MPSB, all of which have
been directed against threats to national security and serious crime involving
individuals, groups and organisations based in this country.
94. HM Customs and Excise tell me that interception is a crucial time-critical
tool which enables the investigation and intelligence arms within the
Department to meet the targets set for them by the Government and make
Government strategies in the fight against Class A drugs and large scale tax
evasion work.
95. I have no doubt that in 2001, as before, interception has played a vital part
in the battle against terrorism and serious crime, and one which would not have
been achieved by other means. I am also confident that Ministers and the
intelligence and law enforcement agencies carry out this task in accordance
with the law.
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