Anti-terrorism, Crime and Security Act 2001 Explanatory Notes

Section 79 Prohibition of disclosures in relation to nuclear security

163.Subsections (1) and (2) set out the circumstances in which the offence is committed. The offence covers disclosures that might prejudice the security of nuclear sites or of nuclear material held on such sites or being transported to or from such sites or being carried on a British ship.

164.Subsection (3) sets out the penalties for the offence.

165.Subsection (4) defines terms used in the section. The definition of “nuclear site” covers all sites which require a licence under s.1(1) of the Nuclear Installations Act 1965.

166.Subsections (5) and (6) ensure that the offence can be committed outside the United Kingdom by United Kingdom persons as defined in Section 81 (i.e. as well as by any person in the UK). Such persons may be prosecuted in the United Kingdom.

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