Part IV

INVESTIGATION OF SERIOUS OR COMPLEX FRAUD

Lord Advocate’s direction.
27
1
Where it appears to the Lord Advocate—
a
that a suspected offence may involve serious or complex fraud; and
b
that, for the purpose of investigating the affairs or any aspect of the affairs of any person, there is good reason to do so,
he may give a direction under this section.
2
The Lord Advocate may also give a direction under this section by virtue of section 15(4) of the Crime (International Co-operation) Act 2003 or on a request made by the Attorney-General of the Isle of Man, Jersey or Guernsey acting under legislation corresponding to this Part of this Act.
3
Where a direction is given under this section, this Part of this Act shall apply as regards the investigation of the offence; and any person (other than a constable) nominated by the Lord Advocate either generally or in respect of a particular case (in this Part of this Act referred to as “a nominated officer”) shall be entitled to exercise the powers and functions conferred by this Part of this Act.
4
A direction under this section shall be signed by the Lord Advocate.
S. 27(2) substituted (31.12.2020) by The Law Enforcement and Security (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019 (S.I. 2019/742), regs. 1, 78 (with reg. 84) ( as amended by S.I. 2020/1408, regs. 1, 27); 2020 c. 1, Sch. 5 para. 1(1)