(1)A local authority is a relevant public authority for the purposes of this Part.
(2)In this Part “designated senior officer”, in relation to a local authority, means an individual who holds with the authority—
(a)the position of director, head of service or service manager (or equivalent), or
(b)a higher position.
(3)A designated senior officer of a local authority may grant an authorisation for obtaining communications data only if section 61(1)(a) is met in relation to a purpose within section 61(7)(b).
(4)The Secretary of State may by regulations amend subsection (2).
(5)Before making regulations under subsection (4) which amend subsection (2) so as to replace an office, rank or position specified in that subsection with a lower office, rank or position, the Secretary of State must consult—
(a)the Investigatory Powers Commissioner, and
(b)each local authority to which the amendment relates.
(6)A statutory instrument containing regulations under subsection (4) to which subsection (5) applies may not be made except in accordance with the enhanced affirmative procedure.
(7)Sections 74 and 75 impose further restrictions in relation to the grant of authorisations by local authorities.