Armed Forces Act 2021

Schedules

Section 2

Schedule 1 U.K. Constitution of the Court Martial

Number and rank of the lay members U.K.

1 (1) Section 155 of AFA 2006 (constitution of the Court Martial) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)(b), for “at least three but not more than five” substitute “three or, in the case of proceedings of a prescribed description, six”.

(3) In subsection (2), omit paragraph (a) (together with the final “or”).

(4) After subsection (2) insert—

“(2A) In the case of proceedings where the number of lay members would (but for this subsection) be three, a judge advocate may, in accordance with Court Martial rules, direct that the number of lay members is to be four.”

(5) In subsection (3)(a), for “or warrant officers” substitute “, warrant officers or OR-7 ranks”.

(6) After subsection (6) insert—

“(6A) Court Martial rules may provide that in prescribed circumstances the Court Martial is to remain validly constituted despite the reduction of the number of lay members—

(a) from six to five, or

(b) where a direction has been made under subsection (2A), from four to three,

if a judge advocate gives a direction to that effect.”

(7) Omit subsections (7) and (8).

(8) For subsection (9) substitute—

“(9) In this section—

• “OR-7 rank” means any of the following—

  (a)

  chief petty officer;

  (b)

  staff corporal;

  (c)

  staff sergeant;

  (d)

  colour sergeant, Royal Marines;

  (e)

  flight sergeant;

  (f)

  chief technician;

• “prescribed” means prescribed by Court Martial rules.”

Commencement Information

I1 Sch. 1 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I2 Sch. 1 para. 1 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(a)

I3 Sch. 1 para. 1 in force at 1.1.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 2

2 (1) Section 156 of AFA 2006 (officers and warrant officers qualified for membership of the Court Martial) is amended as follows.

(2) In the heading, for “and warrant officers” substitute “etc”.

(3) In subsection (1), for “or warrant officer” substitute “, warrant officer or OR-7 rank”.

(4) After subsection (3) insert—

“(3A) An OR-7 rank is not qualified for membership of the court if that person is an acting—

(a) chief petty officer,

(b) staff corporal,

(c) staff sergeant,

(d) colour sergeant, Royal Marines,

(e) flight sergeant, or

(f) chief technician.”

(5) In subsection (4), in the words before paragraph (a), for “or warrant officer” substitute “, warrant officer or OR-7 rank”.

(6) At the end insert—

“(6) In this section “OR-7 rank” has the meaning given by section 155(9).”

Commencement Information

I4 Sch. 1 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I5 Sch. 1 para. 2 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(a)

I6 Sch. 1 para. 2 in force at 1.1.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 2

3 (1) Section 157 of AFA 2006 (officers and warrant officers ineligible for membership in particular circumstances) is amended as follows.

(2) In the heading, for “and warrant officers” substitute “etc”.

(3) In subsection (2), after “warrant officer” insert “or OR-7 rank”.

(4) In subsection (4), for “or warrant officer” substitute “, warrant officer or OR-7 rank”.

(5) At the end insert—

“(5) In this section “OR-7 rank” has the meaning given by section 155(9).”

Commencement Information

I7 Sch. 1 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I8 Sch. 1 para. 3 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(a)

I9 Sch. 1 para. 3 in force at 1.1.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 2

Findings and sentence U.K.

4 (1) Section 160 of AFA 2006 (decisions of Court Martial: finding and sentence) is amended as follows.

(2) Before subsection (1) insert—

“(A1) The finding of the Court Martial on a charge must be determined by votes of the members of the Court Martial other than the judge advocate (the “lay members”) and—

(a) where there are three lay members, must be a finding with which no fewer than two of them agree;

(b) where there are four lay members, must be a finding with which no fewer than three of them agree;

(c) where there are five lay members, must be a finding with which no fewer than four of them agree;

(d) where there are six lay members, must be a finding with which no fewer than five of them agree.”

(3) In subsection (1), for the words from “the following” to “passed by it,” substitute “subsection (4), any sentence passed by the Court Martial”.

(4) Omit subsections (2) and (3).

Commencement Information

I10 Sch. 1 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I11 Sch. 1 para. 4 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(a)

I12 Sch. 1 para. 4 in force at 1.1.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 2

Section 9

Schedule 2 U.K. Reserve forces: flexibility of commitments

Part 1 U.K. Consequential amendments

Reserve Forces Act 1996 U.K.

1 The Reserve Forces Act 1996 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I13 Sch. 2 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I14 Sch. 2 para. 1 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

2 (1) Section 17 (postponement of discharge) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1), for “full-time service under a full-time service commitment” substitute “service under a section 24 commitment”.

(3) In subsection (2), for “full-time service under a full-time service commitment” substitute “service under a section 24 commitment”.

(4) In subsection (4), for “full-time service under a full-time service commitment” substitute “service under a section 24 commitment”.

Commencement Information

I15 Sch. 2 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I16 Sch. 2 para. 2 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

3 (1) Section 26 (parliamentary control of commitments) is amended as follows.

(2) For subsection (1)(a) substitute—

“(a) in service under section 24 commitments; or”.

(3) In subsection (2), for “full-time service” substitute “service under section 24 commitments”.

(4) In subsection (3), for “full-time service” substitute “service under section 24 commitments”.

Commencement Information

I17 Sch. 2 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I18 Sch. 2 para. 3 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

4 (1) Section 97 (failure to attend for duty or training) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)—

(a) in the words before paragraph (a), for “full-time service” substitute “section 24”;

(b) in paragraph (a), for “full-time service”, in the first place it occurs, substitute “section 24”, and omit “full-time” in the second place it occurs.

Commencement Information

I19 Sch. 2 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I20 Sch. 2 para. 4 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

5 In subsection (1) of section 127 (interpretation)—

(a) omit the definition of “full-time service commitment”, and

(b) at the appropriate place, insert—

• ““section 24 commitment” means a commitment under section 24;”.

Commencement Information

I21 Sch. 2 para. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I22 Sch. 2 para. 5 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

6 In Schedule 9 (application of Act to members of transitional classes), in paragraph 11, in the words before sub-paragraph (a), for “full-time service commitment” substitute “commitment under that section”.

Commencement Information

I23 Sch. 2 para. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I24 Sch. 2 para. 6 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

Armed Forces Act 2006 U.K.

7 AFA 2006 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I25 Sch. 2 para. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I26 Sch. 2 para. 7 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

8 In section 62 (time limit for charging Reserve Forces Act offences)—

(a) in subsection (3)(c)(ii), for “full-time service” substitute “service under a commitment entered into under section 24 of the Reserve Forces Act 1996”;

(b) omit subsection (3)(d).

Commencement Information

I27 Sch. 2 para. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I28 Sch. 2 para. 8 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

9 In section 367 (persons subject to service law: regular and reserve forces), in subsection (2)(c), omit “full-time”.

Commencement Information

I29 Sch. 2 para. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I30 Sch. 2 para. 9 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

Part 2 U.K. Transitional provision

10 U.K. Regulations under section 24(4) may provide that any provision of section 9 or Part 1 of this Schedule is to have effect in relation to commitments under section 24 or 25 of the Reserve Forces Act 1996 entered into before section 9 comes into force.

Commencement Information

I31 Sch. 2 para. 10 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I32 Sch. 2 para. 10 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(c)

Section 10

Schedule 3 U.K. Service complaints appeals

Equal Pay Act (Northern Ireland) 1970 U.K.

1 In section 6A of the Equal Pay Act (Northern Ireland) 1970 (c. 32 (N.I.)) (service pay and conditions), in subsection (5A)—

(a) omit “and” at the end of paragraph (a);

(b) after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) there are grounds (of which the claimant is aware) on which the claimant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and”;

(c) in paragraph (b)(i) for “340D(6)” substitute “340D(6)(a)”.

Commencement Information

I33 Sch. 3 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I34 Sch. 3 para. 1 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I35 Sch. 3 para. 1 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Sex Discrimination (Northern Ireland) Order 1976 U.K.

2 In Article 82 of the Sex Discrimination (Northern Ireland) Order 1976 (S.I. 1976/1042 (N.I. 15)) (application to Crown), in paragraph (9BA)—

(a) omit “and” at the end of sub-paragraph (a);

(b) after sub-paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and”;

(c) in paragraph (b)(i) for “340D(6)” substitute “340D(6)(a)”.

Commencement Information

I36 Sch. 3 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I37 Sch. 3 para. 2 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I38 Sch. 3 para. 2 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Race Relations (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 U.K.

3 In Article 71 of the Race Relations (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 (S.I. 1997/869 (N.I. 6)) (application to Crown etc), in paragraph (8A)—

(a) omit “and” at the end of sub-paragraph (a);

(b) after sub-paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and”;

(c) in paragraph (b)(i) for “340D(6)” substitute “340D(6)(a)”.

Commencement Information

I39 Sch. 3 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I40 Sch. 3 para. 3 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I41 Sch. 3 para. 3 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Working Time Regulations 1998 U.K.

4 In regulation 38 of the Working Time Regulations 1998 (S.I. 1998/1833) (armed forces)—

(a) in paragraph (2), for sub-paragraph (a) substitute—

“(a) that person (“the complainant”) has made a service complaint in respect of the same matter, and”;

(b) for paragraph (3) substitute—

“(3) Where the service complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006, it is to be treated for the purposes of paragraph (2)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision expires,

(b) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and

(c) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section 340D(6)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed), or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision cannot be proceeded with.”;

(c) in paragraph (4), for “service redress procedures” substitute “procedures set out in service complaints regulations”;

(d) for paragraph (5) substitute—

“(5) In this regulation—

• “service complaint” means a complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

• “service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of that Act.”

Commencement Information

I42 Sch. 3 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I43 Sch. 3 para. 4 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I44 Sch. 3 para. 4 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000 U.K.

5 In regulation 13 of the Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations 2000 (S.I. 2000/1551) (armed forces)—

(a) in paragraph (3), for sub-paragraph (a) substitute—

“(a) that person (“the complainant”) has made a service complaint in respect of the same matter, and”;

(b) for paragraph (4) substitute—

“(4) Where the service complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006, it is to be treated for the purposes of paragraph (3)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision expires,

(b) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and

(c) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section 340D(6)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed), or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision cannot be proceeded with.”;

(c) in paragraph (5), for “service redress procedures” substitute “procedures set out in service complaints regulations”;

(d) for paragraph (6) substitute—

“(6) In this regulation—

• “service complaint” means a complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

• “service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of that Act.”

Commencement Information

I45 Sch. 3 para. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I46 Sch. 3 para. 5 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I47 Sch. 3 para. 5 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 U.K.

6 In regulation 13 of the Part-time Workers (Prevention of Less Favourable Treatment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2000 (S.R. (N.I.) 2000 No. 219) (armed forces)—

(a) in paragraph (3), for sub-paragraph (a) substitute—

“(a) that person (“the complainant”) has made a service complaint in respect of the same matter, and”;

(b) for paragraph (4) substitute—

“(4) Where the service complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006, it is to be treated for the purposes of paragraph (3)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision expires,

(b) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and

(c) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section 340D(6)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed), or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision cannot be proceeded with.”;

(c) in paragraph (5), for “service redress procedures” substitute “procedures set out in service complaints regulations”;

(d) for paragraph (6) substitute—

“(6) In this regulation—

• “service complaint” means a complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

• “service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of that Act.”

Commencement Information

I48 Sch. 3 para. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I49 Sch. 3 para. 6 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I50 Sch. 3 para. 6 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 U.K.

7 In regulation 43 of the Employment Equality (Sexual Orientation) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 (S.R. (N.I.) 2003 No. 497)—

(a) in paragraph (7), for sub-paragraph (a) substitute—

“(a) the complainant has made a service complaint about the matter; and”;

(b) for paragraph (8) substitute—

“(8) Where the service complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006, it is to be treated for the purposes of paragraph (7)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person's or panel's decision expires;

(b) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal; and

(c) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section 340D(6) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed); or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person's or panel's decision cannot be proceeded with.”;

(c) in paragraph (9), for “service redress procedures” substitute “procedures set out in service complaints regulations”;

(d) in paragraph (10)—

(i) for the definition of “the service redress procedures” substitute—

• ““service complaint” means a complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;”;

(ii) after the definition of “service complaint” (as substituted by sub-paragraph (i)) insert—

• ““service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of the Armed Forces Act 2006; and”.

Commencement Information

I51 Sch. 3 para. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I52 Sch. 3 para. 7 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I53 Sch. 3 para. 7 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Equality Act 2010 U.K.

8 In section 121 of the Equality Act 2010 (armed forces cases), in subsection (2)—

(a) omit “and” at the end of paragraph (a);

(b) after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and”;

(c) in paragraph (b)(i) for “340D(6)” substitute “340D(6)(a)”.

Commencement Information

I54 Sch. 3 para. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I55 Sch. 3 para. 8 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I56 Sch. 3 para. 8 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Working Time Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 U.K.

9 In regulation 49 of the Working Time Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 (S.R. (N.I.) 2016 No. 49) (armed forces)—

(a) in paragraph (2), for sub-paragraph (a) substitute—

“(a) that person (“the complainant”) has made a service complaint in respect of the same matter, and”;

(b) for paragraph (3) substitute—

“(3) Where the service complaint is dealt with by a person or panel appointed by the Defence Council by virtue of section 340C(1)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006, it is to be treated for the purposes of paragraph (2)(b) as withdrawn if—

(a) the period allowed in accordance with service complaints regulations for bringing an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision expires,

(b) there are grounds (of which the complainant is aware) on which the complainant is entitled to bring such an appeal, and

(c) either—

(i) the complainant does not apply to the Service Complaints Ombudsman for a review by virtue of section 340D(6)(a) of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (review of decision that appeal brought out of time cannot proceed), or

(ii) the complainant does apply for such a review and the Ombudsman decides that an appeal against the person’s or panel’s decision cannot be proceeded with.”;

(c) in paragraph (4), for “service redress procedures” substitute “procedures set out in service complaints regulations”;

(d) for paragraph (5) substitute—

“(5) In this regulation—

• “service complaint” means a complaint under section 340A of the Armed Forces Act 2006;

• “service complaints regulations” means regulations made under section 340B(1) of that Act.”

Commencement Information

I57 Sch. 3 para. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I58 Sch. 3 para. 9 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(d)

I59 Sch. 3 para. 9 in force at 15.6.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/625, reg. 2

Section 11

Schedule 4 U.K. Service police: complaints, misconduct etc

Service Police Complaints Commissioner U.K.

1 After Schedule 14 to AFA 2006 insert—

Section 365BA

“Schedule 14A U.K. The Service Police Complaints Commissioner

Status

1 The Service Police Complaints Commissioner is a corporation sole.

2 The Commissioner is not to be regarded—

(a) as the servant or agent of the Crown, or

(b) as enjoying any status, immunity or privilege of the Crown.

Appointment

3 The Commissioner is to be appointed by Her Majesty on the recommendation of the Secretary of State.

Disqualification

4 A person is disqualified from being the Commissioner if any of the following applies—

(a) the person is a member of the regular or reserve forces (whether or not as a member of a service police force);

(b) the person has been a member of a service police force;

(c) the person is employed in the civil service of the State.

Vacancy or incapacity

5 (1) Sub-paragraph (2) applies if—

(a) the office of the Commissioner becomes vacant, or

(b) it appears to the Secretary of State that the ability of the Commissioner to carry out the Commissioner’s functions is seriously impaired because of ill health (whether mental or physical).

(2) The Secretary of State may appoint a person to act as the Commissioner during the vacancy or period of ill health.

(3) An acting Commissioner holds and vacates office in accordance with the terms of the acting Commissioner’s appointment.

(4) While an acting Commissioner holds office, the acting Commissioner is to be regarded (except for the purposes of paragraphs 3, 4 and 6 and this paragraph) as the Commissioner.

Term of office

6 The Commissioner holds and vacates office in accordance with the terms of the Commissioner’s appointment.

Delegation of functions

7 The Commissioner may authorise a member of staff working for the Commissioner to exercise any power or duty of the Commissioner on the Commissioner’s behalf.

Liability

8 (1) This paragraph applies where a person has been seconded to serve as a member of the Commissioner’s staff.

(2) The Commissioner is liable in respect of unlawful conduct of the person in the carrying out, or purported carrying out, of their functions as a member of the Commissioner’s staff, in the same manner as an employer is liable in respect of unlawful conduct of an employee in the course of their employment.

(3) In sub-paragraph (1) the reference to secondment to serve as a member of the Commissioner’s staff is to serving as a member of the Commissioner’s staff without being employed by the Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I60 Sch. 4 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I61 Sch. 4 para. 1 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I62 Sch. 4 para. 1 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

Investigatory Powers U.K.

2 (1) The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 is amended as follows.

(2) In section 58 (section 57: meaning of “excepted disclosure”), in subsection (4), after paragraph (c) insert—

“(ca) a disclosure made to the Service Police Complaints Commissioner for the purposes of facilitating the carrying out of any of the Commissioner’s functions;”.

(3) In section 106 (power to issue warrants to law enforcement officers), after subsection (11) insert—

“(11A) A law enforcement chief who is the Service Police Complaints Commissioner may consider that the condition in subsection (1)(a) is satisfied only if the offence, or all of the offences, to which the serious crime relates are offences that are being investigated as part of an investigation carried out under regulations under section 340P of the Armed Forces Act 2006 (power to make further provision).”

(4) In section 107 (restriction on issue of warrants to certain law enforcement officers), in subsection (2), after paragraph (h) insert—

“(ha) the Service Police Complaints Commissioner;”.

(5) In section 133 (section 132: meaning of “excepted disclosure”), in subsection (3), after paragraph (b) insert—

“(ba) a disclosure made to the Service Police Complaints Commissioner for the purposes of facilitating the carrying out of any of the Commissioner’s functions;”.

(6) In Part 1 of Schedule 4 (relevant public authorities and designated senior officers etc), after the entry relating to the Independent Office for Police Conduct, insert—

“Service Police Complaints Commissioner

60A(7)(b) and (g)

Senior investigating officer

All

61A(7)(a) and (e)”.

(7) In Part 2 of Schedule 6 (issue of warrants under section 106 etc), after the entry relating to the Director General of the Independent Office for Police Conduct, insert—

“The Service Police Complaints Commissioner.

A member of the Service Police Complaints Commissioner’s staff who is designated by the Commissioner for the purpose.

An investigating officer appointed under section 365BB”.

Commencement Information

I63 Sch. 4 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I64 Sch. 4 para. 2 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I65 Sch. 4 para. 2 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

Other amendments U.K.

3 In Part 2 of the Table in paragraph 3 of Schedule 1 to the Public Records Act 1958 (definition of public records), at the appropriate place insert—

• “Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I66 Sch. 4 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I67 Sch. 4 para. 3 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I68 Sch. 4 para. 3 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

4 In Part 3 of Schedule 1 to the House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 (other disqualifying offices), at the appropriate place insert—

• “Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I69 Sch. 4 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I70 Sch. 4 para. 4 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I71 Sch. 4 para. 4 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

5 In Part 3 of Schedule 1 to the Northern Ireland Assembly Disqualification Act 1975 (other disqualifying offices), at the appropriate place insert—

• “Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I72 Sch. 4 para. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I73 Sch. 4 para. 5 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I74 Sch. 4 para. 5 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

6 In Part 6 of Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (public authorities), at the appropriate place insert—

• “Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I75 Sch. 4 para. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I76 Sch. 4 para. 6 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I77 Sch. 4 para. 6 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

7 In section 47 of the Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (interested person)—

(a) in subsection (2), after paragraph (k) insert—

“(ka) where subsection (5A) applies, the Service Police Complaints Commissioner;”;

(b) after subsection (5) insert—

“(5A) This subsection applies where the death of the deceased is or has been the subject of an investigation directed or carried out by the Service Police Complaints Commissioner in accordance with provision made under section 340P of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I78 Sch. 4 para. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I79 Sch. 4 para. 7 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I80 Sch. 4 para. 7 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

8 In Part 1 of Schedule 19 to the Equality Act 2010 (public authorities, general), under the heading “Armed forces”, at the appropriate place insert—

• “Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I81 Sch. 4 para. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I82 Sch. 4 para. 8 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I83 Sch. 4 para. 8 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

9 In Schedule 7 to the Data Protection Act 2018 (competent authorities), after paragraph 18 insert—

“18A The Service Police Complaints Commissioner.”

Commencement Information

I84 Sch. 4 para. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I85 Sch. 4 para. 9 in force at 1.11.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 3

I86 Sch. 4 para. 9 in force at 19.6.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/621, reg. 2

Section 12

Schedule 5 U.K. Tri-service serious crime unit

Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (c.60) U.K.

1 (1) Section 63A of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (fingerprints and samples: supplementary provision) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1A)—

(a) after paragraph (b) insert—

“(ba) the tri-service serious crime unit;”;

(b) in paragraph (d), for “(c)” substitute “(ba)”.

(3) After subsection (1B) insert—

“(1BA) In subsection (1A) “tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I87 Sch. 5 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I88 Sch. 5 para. 1 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I89 Sch. 5 para. 1 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (S.I. 1989/1341 (N.I. 12)) U.K.

2 (1) Article 63A of the Police and Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1989 (fingerprints and samples: supplementary provision) is amended as follows.

(2) In paragraph (1A)—

(a) after sub-paragraph (b) insert—

“(ba) the tri-service serious crime unit;”;

(b) in sub-paragraph (c), for “or (b)” substitute “to (ba)”.

(3) After paragraph (1B) insert—

“(1BA) In paragraph (1A) “tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I90 Sch. 5 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I91 Sch. 5 para. 2 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I92 Sch. 5 para. 2 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Criminal Appeal Act 1995 (c. 35) U.K.

3 The Criminal Appeal Act 1995 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I93 Sch. 5 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I94 Sch. 5 para. 3 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I95 Sch. 5 para. 3 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

4 (1) Section 19 (power to require appointment of investigating officers) is amended as follows.

(2) After subsection (2) insert—

“(2A) Where the Commission has power to impose a requirement under paragraph (a) of subsection (2) and the public body referred to in that paragraph is mentioned in section 22(4A), that power includes power to impose the requirement on the Provost Marshal for serious crime (instead of the person who is the appropriate person in relation to the public body).”

(3) In subsection (4)(b), for the words from “either” to the end substitute “in a body selected by the chief officer which is—

(i) another police force,

(ii) a service police force, or

(iii) the tri-service serious crime unit.”

(4) In subsection (4A)—

(a) in the words before paragraph (a), for “a Provost Marshal” substitute “the Provost Marshal of a service police force”;

(b) in paragraph (a), for the words from “the” to “Marshal” substitute “that service police force”;

(c) for paragraph (b) substitute—

“(b) a requirement to appoint a person serving in a body selected by the Provost Marshal which is—

(i) a police force,

(ii) another service police force, or

(iii) the tri-service serious crime unit.”

(5) After subsection (4A) insert—

“(4B) A requirement under this section imposed on the Provost Marshal for serious crime may be—

(a) a requirement to appoint a person serving in the tri-service serious crime unit, or

(b) a requirement to appoint a person serving either in a police force selected by the Provost Marshal or in a service police force selected by the Provost Marshal.”

(6) In subsection (5), for paragraph (b) substitute—

“(b) a requirement to appoint a person serving in a body selected by the appropriate person which is—

(i) a police force, a service police force or the tri-service serious crime unit, or

(ii) a public body (not falling within sub-paragraph (i)) having functions which consist of or include the investigation of offences.”

(7) In subsection (6)—

(a) in paragraph (b), for the words from “a police” to “body” substitute “a body mentioned in subsection (4)(b), (4A)(b), (4B)(b) or (5)(b)”;

(b) in the words after paragraph (b), after “(4A)” insert “, (4B)”.

(8) In subsection (7)—

(a) in the words before paragraph (a), after “body” insert “or by the Provost Marshal for serious crime”;

(b) in paragraph (a), after “body” insert “or (as the case requires) the Provost Marshal for serious crime”.

(9) After subsection (7) insert—

“(8) In this section “tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I96 Sch. 5 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I97 Sch. 5 para. 4 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I98 Sch. 5 para. 4 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

5 In section 20 (inquiries by investigating officers), after subsection (2) insert—

“(2A) In the application of subsection (2) in relation to an investigating officer who is serving in a public body mentioned in section 22(4A), the reference in subsection (2) to the person who is the appropriate person in relation to that public body is to be read as including (so far as necessary) a reference to the Provost Marshal for serious crime.”

Commencement Information

I99 Sch. 5 para. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I100 Sch. 5 para. 5 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I101 Sch. 5 para. 5 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Police Act 1997 (c. 50) U.K.

6 The Police Act 1997 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I102 Sch. 5 para. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I103 Sch. 5 para. 6 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I104 Sch. 5 para. 6 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

7 (1) Section 93 (authorisation to interfere with property etc) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (3), after paragraph (aa) insert—

“(aaa) if the authorising officer is within subsection (5)(eda), by a member of the tri-service serious crime unit;”.

(3) In subsection (5), after paragraph (ed) insert—

“(eda) the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”.

(4) In subsection (6A), in the words before paragraph (a), for “or (ed)” substitute “, (ed) or (eda)”.

Commencement Information

I105 Sch. 5 para. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I106 Sch. 5 para. 7 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I107 Sch. 5 para. 7 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

8 In section 94 (authorisations given in absence of authorising officer), in subsection (2), after paragraph (dc) insert—

“(dca) where the authorising officer is within paragraph (eda) of that subsection, by a person holding the position of deputy Provost Marshal in the tri-service serious crime unit;”.

Commencement Information

I108 Sch. 5 para. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I109 Sch. 5 para. 8 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I110 Sch. 5 para. 8 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

9 In section 108 (interpretation of Part 3), in subsection (1), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006;”.

Commencement Information

I111 Sch. 5 para. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I112 Sch. 5 para. 9 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I113 Sch. 5 para. 9 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

10 In section 113B (enhanced criminal record certificates), in subsection (11), after paragraph (b) insert—

“(ba) the tri-service serious crime unit (and for this purpose a reference to the chief officer of a police force must be taken to be a reference to the Provost Marshal for serious crime);”.

Commencement Information

I114 Sch. 5 para. 10 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I115 Sch. 5 para. 10 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I116 Sch. 5 para. 10 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

11 In section 126 (interpretation of Part 5), in subsection (1), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I117 Sch. 5 para. 11 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I118 Sch. 5 para. 11 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I119 Sch. 5 para. 11 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Terrorism Act 2000 (c. 11) U.K.

12 In Schedule 8 to the Terrorism Act 2000 (detention), in paragraph 20J, in the definition of “police force”, after paragraph (l) insert— “and references to a police force are to be read as including the tri-service serious crime unit (as described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006);

Commencement Information

I120 Sch. 5 para. 12 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I121 Sch. 5 para. 12 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I122 Sch. 5 para. 12 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 (c. 23) U.K.

13 The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I123 Sch. 5 para. 13 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I124 Sch. 5 para. 13 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I125 Sch. 5 para. 13 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

14 In section 32 (authorisation of intrusive surveillance), in subsection (6), after paragraph (i) insert—

“(ia) the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”.

Commencement Information

I126 Sch. 5 para. 14 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I127 Sch. 5 para. 14 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I128 Sch. 5 para. 14 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

15 (1) Section 33 (rules for grant of authorisations) is amended as follows.

(2) After subsection (1) insert—

“(1ZZA) A person who is a designated person for the purposes of section 28, 29 or 29B by reference to the person’s office, rank or position with the tri-service serious crime unit must not grant an authorisation under that section except on an application made by a member of that unit.”

(3) After subsection (3) insert—

“(3ZZA) The Provost Marshal for serious crime must not grant an authorisation for the carrying out of intrusive surveillance except—

(a) on an application made by a member of the tri-service serious crime unit; and

(b) in the case of an authorisation for the carrying out of intrusive surveillance in relation to any residential premises, where those premises are in the area of operation of a police force mentioned in subsection (6)(d).”

Commencement Information

I129 Sch. 5 para. 15 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I130 Sch. 5 para. 15 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I131 Sch. 5 para. 15 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

16 (1) Section 34 (grant of authorisations in the senior officer’s absence) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1)(a), for “force,” substitute “force (other than a member of the tri-service serious crime unit), a member of the tri-service serious crime unit,”.

(3) In subsection (2)(a), after “as the case may be, as” insert “Provost Marshal for serious crime or”.

(4) In subsection (4), after paragraph (h) insert—

“(ha) a person is entitled to act for the Provost Marshal for serious crime if the person holds the position of deputy Provost Marshal in the tri-service serious crime unit;”.

Commencement Information

I132 Sch. 5 para. 16 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I133 Sch. 5 para. 16 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I134 Sch. 5 para. 16 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

17 (1) Section 35 (notification of authorisations for intrusive surveillance) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1), after “police,” insert “tri-service serious crime unit,”.

(3) In subsection (10)—

(a) in the words before paragraph (a), after “police,” insert “tri-service serious crime unit,”;

(b) after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”;

(c) in paragraph (c), after “(a)” insert “or for a person falling within paragraph (aa)”.

Commencement Information

I135 Sch. 5 para. 17 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I136 Sch. 5 para. 17 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I137 Sch. 5 para. 17 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

18 (1) Section 36 (approval required for authorisations to take effect) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1), after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) a member of the tri-service serious crime unit;”.

(3) In subsection (6)—

(a) after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa) where the authorisation was granted by the Provost Marshal for serious crime or a person entitled to act for the Provost Marshal for serious crime by virtue of section 34(4)(ha), that Provost Marshal;”;

(b) in paragraph (f), for “(a) to (i)” substitute “(a) to (h) or (i)”.

Commencement Information

I138 Sch. 5 para. 18 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I139 Sch. 5 para. 18 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I140 Sch. 5 para. 18 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

19 In section 41 (Secretary of State authorisations), in subsection (7), at the end insert “or is a member of the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I141 Sch. 5 para. 19 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I142 Sch. 5 para. 19 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I143 Sch. 5 para. 19 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

20 In section 56(1)(interpretation of Part 3), in the definition of “chief officer of police”, after paragraph (h) insert—

“(ha) the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”.

Commencement Information

I144 Sch. 5 para. 20 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I145 Sch. 5 para. 20 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I146 Sch. 5 para. 20 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

21 (1) Section 81 (general interpretation) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (1), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006;”.

(3) In subsection (6)(b), for the words from “serving” to the end substitute “serving—

(i) with that force,

(ii) with another of those police forces, or

(iii) with the tri-service serious crime unit.”

Commencement Information

I147 Sch. 5 para. 21 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I148 Sch. 5 para. 21 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I149 Sch. 5 para. 21 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

22 In Schedule 1 (regulation of relevant public authorities), after paragraph A1 insert—

“A1A The tri-service serious crime unit.”

Commencement Information

I150 Sch. 5 para. 22 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I151 Sch. 5 para. 22 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I152 Sch. 5 para. 22 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Sexual Offences Act 2003 (c. 42) U.K.

23 In section 137 of the Sexual Offences Act 2003 (service courts), in subsection (4), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““Provost Marshal” means the Provost Marshal of a service police force or the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”.

Commencement Information

I153 Sch. 5 para. 23 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I154 Sch. 5 para. 23 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I155 Sch. 5 para. 23 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Armed Forces Act 2006 (c. 52) U.K.

24 AFA 2006 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I156 Sch. 5 para. 24 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I157 Sch. 5 para. 24 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I158 Sch. 5 para. 24 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

25 (1) Section 93C (preliminary impairment test) is amended as follows.

(2) In subsection (4), for the words from “means” to the end substitute “means—

(a) the Provost Marshals of each of the service police forces, and

(b) the Provost Marshal for serious crime.”

(3) In subsection (6), at the end insert “or the Provost Marshal for serious crime”.

Commencement Information

I159 Sch. 5 para. 25 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I160 Sch. 5 para. 25 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I161 Sch. 5 para. 25 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

26 In section 113 (CO to ensure service police aware of possibility serious offence committed), in subsection (1), after “police force” insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I162 Sch. 5 para. 26 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I163 Sch. 5 para. 26 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I164 Sch. 5 para. 26 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

27 In section 114 (CO to ensure service police aware of certain circumstances), in subsection (1), after “police force” insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I165 Sch. 5 para. 27 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I166 Sch. 5 para. 27 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I167 Sch. 5 para. 27 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

28 In section 115 (duty of CO with respect to investigation of service offences), in subsections (1)(b) and (4)(b), after “police force” insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I168 Sch. 5 para. 28 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I169 Sch. 5 para. 28 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I170 Sch. 5 para. 28 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

29 In section 116 (referral of case following investigation by service or civilian police), in subsection (1), after “service police force” (in each place it occurs) insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I171 Sch. 5 para. 29 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I172 Sch. 5 para. 29 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I173 Sch. 5 para. 29 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

30 In section 119 (circumstances in which CO has power to charge etc), in subsection (3)(b), after “force” insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I174 Sch. 5 para. 30 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I175 Sch. 5 para. 30 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I176 Sch. 5 para. 30 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

31 In section 321A (inspection of service police investigations), at the end insert—

“(5) For the purposes of this section the tri-service serious crime unit is to be regarded as a service police force.”

Commencement Information

I177 Sch. 5 para. 31 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I178 Sch. 5 para. 31 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I179 Sch. 5 para. 31 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

32 In section 374 (definitions applying for purposes of whole Act), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A);”.

Commencement Information

I180 Sch. 5 para. 32 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I181 Sch. 5 para. 32 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I182 Sch. 5 para. 32 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (c. 28) U.K.

33 In section 18E of the Counter-Terrorism Act 2008 (sections 18 to 18E: supplementary provisions) subsection (1) is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I183 Sch. 5 para. 33 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I184 Sch. 5 para. 33 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I185 Sch. 5 para. 33 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

34 In the definition of “law enforcement authority”, after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa)

the tri-service serious crime unit,”.

Commencement Information

I186 Sch. 5 para. 34 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I187 Sch. 5 para. 34 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I188 Sch. 5 para. 34 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

35 In the definition of “the responsible officer”, after paragraph (d) insert—

“(da)

in relation to material obtained or acquired by the tri-service serious crime unit, the Provost Marshal for serious crime;”.

Commencement Information

I189 Sch. 5 para. 35 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I190 Sch. 5 para. 35 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I191 Sch. 5 para. 35 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

36 At the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I192 Sch. 5 para. 36 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I193 Sch. 5 para. 36 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I194 Sch. 5 para. 36 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Coroners and Justice Act 2009 (c. 25) U.K.

37 The Coroners and Justice Act 2009 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I195 Sch. 5 para. 37 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I196 Sch. 5 para. 37 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I197 Sch. 5 para. 37 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

38 In section 47 (interested person), in subsection (2)(j), at the end insert “of a service police force or of the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I198 Sch. 5 para. 38 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I199 Sch. 5 para. 38 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I200 Sch. 5 para. 38 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

39 In section 48 (interpretation: general), in subsection (1), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I201 Sch. 5 para. 39 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I202 Sch. 5 para. 39 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I203 Sch. 5 para. 39 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

40 In Schedule 1 (duty or power to suspend investigations), in paragraph 1(3), after “Provost Marshal” insert “of a service police force, the Provost Marshal for serious crime”.

Commencement Information

I204 Sch. 5 para. 40 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I205 Sch. 5 para. 40 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I206 Sch. 5 para. 40 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

41 In Schedule 7 (allowances, fees and expenses), in paragraph 5(2)(a), for “or a member of a police force,” substitute “member of a police force or member of the tri-service serious crime unit,”.

Commencement Information

I207 Sch. 5 para. 41 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I208 Sch. 5 para. 41 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I209 Sch. 5 para. 41 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011 (c. 23) U.K.

42 In Schedule 6 to the Terrorism Prevention and Investigation Measures Act 2011 (fingerprints and samples), in paragraph 14—

(a) in the definition of “police force”, after paragraph (l) insert— “and references to a police force are to be read as including the tri-service serious crime unit;

(b) at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I210 Sch. 5 para. 42 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I211 Sch. 5 para. 42 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I212 Sch. 5 para. 42 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (c. 25) U.K.

43 The Investigatory Powers Act 2016 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I213 Sch. 5 para. 43 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I214 Sch. 5 para. 43 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I215 Sch. 5 para. 43 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

44 In section 56 (exclusion of matters from legal proceedings etc), in subsection (3)(d), at the end insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I216 Sch. 5 para. 44 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I217 Sch. 5 para. 44 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I218 Sch. 5 para. 44 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

45 In section 57 (duty not to make unauthorised disclosures), in subsection (3)(c), at the end insert “or the tri-service serious crime unit”.

Commencement Information

I219 Sch. 5 para. 45 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I220 Sch. 5 para. 45 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I221 Sch. 5 para. 45 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

46 In section 263 (general definitions), in subsection (1), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006,”.

Commencement Information

I222 Sch. 5 para. 46 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I223 Sch. 5 para. 46 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I224 Sch. 5 para. 46 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

47 In Schedule 4 (relevant public authorities and designated senior officers etc.), in the table in Part 1, after the entry relating to the Royal Air Force Police insert—

“Tri-service serious crime unit	60A(7)(a), (b), (c) and (e)	Lieutenant Commander	Entity data	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)
		Major	Entity data	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)
		Squadron leader	Entity data	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)
		Commander	All	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)
		Lieutenant colonel	All	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)
		Wing commander	All	61(7)(a) and (c)	61A(7)(a) and (c)”.

Commencement Information

I225 Sch. 5 para. 47 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I226 Sch. 5 para. 47 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I227 Sch. 5 para. 47 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

48 In Part 1 of the table in Schedule 6 (issue of warrants under section 106 etc), after the entry relating to the Provost Marshal of the Royal Air Force Police insert—

“The Provost Marshal for serious crime.

A person holding the position of deputy Provost Marshal in the tri-service serious crime unit.

A member of the tri-service serious crime unit.”

Commencement Information

I228 Sch. 5 para. 48 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I229 Sch. 5 para. 48 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I230 Sch. 5 para. 48 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Data Protection Act 2018 (c. 12) U.K.

49 In Schedule 7 to the Data Protection Act 2018 (competent authorities), after paragraph 15 insert—

“15A The Provost Marshal for serious crime.”

Commencement Information

I231 Sch. 5 para. 49 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I232 Sch. 5 para. 49 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I233 Sch. 5 para. 49 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 (c. 3) U.K.

50 In Schedule 3 to the Counter-Terrorism and Border Security Act 2019 (border security), in paragraph 51—

(a) in the definition of “police force”, after paragraph (l) insert— “and references to a police force are to be read as including the tri-service serious crime unit;

(b) at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I234 Sch. 5 para. 50 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I235 Sch. 5 para. 50 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I236 Sch. 5 para. 50 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Crime (Overseas Production Orders) Act 2019 (c. 5) U.K.

51 (1) Section 15 of the Crime (Overseas Production Orders) Act 2019 (application of Act to service police) is amended as follows.

(2) For subsection (3)(c) substitute—

“(c) references to an equivalent appropriate officer are to be read as follows—

(i) where the person who applied for the order or, as the case may be, made the application (“the applicant”) was a member of the tri-service serious crime unit, as references to a member of that unit;

(ii) in any other case, as references to a member of the same service police force as the applicant who is not a member of that unit.”

(3) In subsection (7), at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006.”

Commencement Information

I237 Sch. 5 para. 51 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I238 Sch. 5 para. 51 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I239 Sch. 5 para. 51 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Act 2021 (c. 23) U.K.

52 In section 7 of the Overseas Operations (Service Personnel and Veterans) Act 2021 (general interpretation etc), in subsection (4)—

(a) in the definition of “investigating authority”, after paragraph (a) insert—

“(aa)

the tri-service serious crime unit,”;

(b) at the appropriate place insert—

• ““tri-service serious crime unit” means the unit described in section 375(1A) of the Armed Forces Act 2006;”.

Commencement Information

I240 Sch. 5 para. 52 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I241 Sch. 5 para. 52 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(e)

I242 Sch. 5 para. 52 in force at 5.12.2022 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2022/1095, reg. 4

Section 16

Schedule 6 U.K. Deprivation and driving disqualification orders: minor and consequential amendments

Armed Forces Act 1991 U.K.

1 The Armed Forces Act 1991 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I243 Sch. 6 para. 1 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I244 Sch. 6 para. 1 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I245 Sch. 6 para. 1 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

2 In section 18 (intentional obstruction)—

(a) in subsection (8A) for “12” substitute “14”;

(b) in subsection (8B)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “7” substitute “9”;

(c) in subsection (8C)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “10” substitute “12”.

Commencement Information

I246 Sch. 6 para. 2 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I247 Sch. 6 para. 2 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I248 Sch. 6 para. 2 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

3 In section 20 (intentional obstruction or failure to comply with exclusion requirement)—

(a) in subsection (9A) for “12” substitute “14”;

(b) in subsection (9B)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “7” substitute “9”;

(c) in subsection (9C)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “10” substitute “12”.

Commencement Information

I249 Sch. 6 para. 3 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I250 Sch. 6 para. 3 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I251 Sch. 6 para. 3 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

Reserve Forces Act 1996 U.K.

4 The Reserve Forces Act 1996 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I252 Sch. 6 para. 4 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I253 Sch. 6 para. 4 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I254 Sch. 6 para. 4 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

5 In section 95 (offences against orders and regulations under section 4)—

(a) in subsection (2)(a)(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(b) in subsection (2A)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “10” substitute “12”.

Commencement Information

I255 Sch. 6 para. 5 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I256 Sch. 6 para. 5 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I257 Sch. 6 para. 5 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

6 In paragraph 5 of Schedule 1 (false answer to question in attestation paper)—

(a) in sub-paragraph (3) for “12” substitute “14”;

(b) in sub-paragraph (4)—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “10” substitute “12”.

Commencement Information

I258 Sch. 6 para. 6 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I259 Sch. 6 para. 6 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I260 Sch. 6 para. 6 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

Armed Forces Act 2006 U.K.

7 AFA 2006 is amended as follows.

Commencement Information

I261 Sch. 6 para. 7 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I262 Sch. 6 para. 7 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I263 Sch. 6 para. 7 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

8 In the following provisions, for “12” substitute “14”—

(a) section 25(2) (penalty for misapplying public property etc);

(b) section 35(3) (penalty for annoyance by flying);

(c) section 42(3)(b) (penalties for criminal conduct offences);

(d) section 328(4)(a) (enlistment, terms of service etc);

(e) section 343(5)(a) (service inquiries).

Commencement Information

I264 Sch. 6 para. 8 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I265 Sch. 6 para. 8 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I266 Sch. 6 para. 8 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

9 In section 185(4) (conditional or absolute discharge (civilians only)), at the end insert “, deprivation order or driving disqualification order”.

Commencement Information

I267 Sch. 6 para. 9 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I268 Sch. 6 para. 9 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I269 Sch. 6 para. 9 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3

10 In Schedule 3 (civilians etc: modifications of Court Martial sentencing powers)—

(a) in paragraph 2—

(i) for “12” substitute “14”;

(ii) for “7” substitute “9”;

(b) in paragraph 4—

(i) for “12”, in each place it occurs, substitute “14”;

(ii) for “10”, in each place it occurs, substitute “12”.

Commencement Information

I270 Sch. 6 para. 10 not in force at Royal Assent, see s. 24(1)

I271 Sch. 6 para. 10 in force at 1.5.2022 for specified purposes by S.I. 2022/471, reg. 2(f)

I272 Sch. 6 para. 10 in force at 1.4.2023 in so far as not already in force by S.I. 2023/158, reg. 3