Police powers
25.In a small group of cases detainees in police custody will refuse to co-operate with the police as to their identity. Part 10 contains powers which give the police the authority to search for identifying marks, to take fingerprints of suspects solely for the purpose of identifying them and to photograph suspects and where necessary to demand the removal of facial coverings or face paint in order to take a positive photograph. It also strengthens police powers to require the removal of face coverings worn for the purpose of concealing identity and to seize any such items.
26.Sections 98 to 101 and Schedule 7 allow the British Transport Police (“BTP”) to act outside their railways jurisdiction when asked to assist with a specific incident by a constable from the local police force, the UKAEA constabulary or a Ministry of Defence Police (“MDP”) officer, and in an emergency. The changes also give BTP officers certain powers available to local police officers, including powers under the Terrorism Act 2000 and powers to enter into mutual aid agreements with other forces.
27.Similarly, the MDP is now able to act outside Ministry of Defence land when asked to assist with a specific incident by a constable from the local police force, the BTP or the UKAEA constabulary, and in an emergency. The changes allow MDP to provide assistance, on request, to other forces, and extend to them certain powers in the Terrorism Act 2000.