Explanatory Notes

Terrorism Act 2000

2000 CHAPTER 11

20th July 2000

Commentary

Part Iii: Terrorist Property

Sections 20–21: Disclosure of information: permission; co-operation with the police

32.These sections correspond to section 12 of the PTA and have the same effect. Section 20 ensures that businesses can disclose information to the police without fear of breaching legal restrictions. Subsection (1) of section 21 allows for the activities of informants who may have to be involved with terrorist property if they are not to be found out and protects others who may innocently become involved. Subsection (2) makes it possible for someone involved with such property to avoid prosecution by telling the police as soon as is reasonably practicable (subsection (3)) and discontinuing his involvement if asked to do so by the police (subsection (4)).