Schedule 2 – Drinking Water Quality Regulator: further provision as to powers of entry etc.
170.This schedule regulates the exercise of the powers of entry etc. conferred by sections 9(1), 12(3)(a) and 13(3)(a).
171.The schedule provides that the Regulator can demand entry to premises as of right only at reasonable times except in an emergency. 24 hours notice must be given, unless the premises are those of a public water supplier. Paragraph 2 provides for the Regulator to obtain a warrant from a sheriff or justice of the peace to enforce the powers of entry etc, and that a warrant will be granted only if certain conditions are met. The Regulator or anyone appointed by him is required to produce written evidence of their authority to exercise their powers. Paragraph 4 allows those authorised to enter premises to take other persons and equipment with them into the premises. Paragraph 5 requires anyone entering the premises under the powers in this schedule to leave them as secure as they found them.
172.The schedule also establishes the circumstances in which the Scottish Ministers will pay compensation in respect of the exercise of the Regulator’s powers, and makes it an offence for anyone gaining access to premises under these powers to disclose commercially confidential information gained as a result of that access (paragraphs 6 and 7).