Investigatory Powers Act 2016

The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 has received Royal Assent.  Here is an excellent overview of the Act by David Anderson QC (the Independent Reviewer of Terrorism Legislation).

LIBERTY have commented about the Act describing it as a 'sad day for democracy' and claiming that ' .... This new law is world-leading – but only as a beacon for despots everywhere ...'

The Solicitor's Journal is concerned about the impact that the legislation may have on legal privilege.

It is an extensive Act with 9 Parts and 10 Schedules.  Much of the Act will come into force in accordance with "Commencement Orders."

Terrorism legislation:
The last of Mr Anderson's six annual reports into the operation of the Terrorism Acts was laid before Parliament on 1 December.  It can be found in web-accessible and print versions here – or open this PDF terrorism-acts-report-1-dec-2016

Mr Anderson has held the Reviewer post since 2011 and his term of office ends in February 2017.