Vital national security legislation becomes law

The Covert Human Intelligence Sources (CHIS) Act provides a clear and consistent statutory basis so that our intelligence and enforcement agencies and public bodies have the right tools to keep us safe.

This longstanding critical capability supports the work of undercover agents in preventing and safeguarding victims from serious crimes, including terrorism, by ensuring they can gain the trust of those under investigation.

Robust independent oversight of the capability is provided by the Investigatory Powers Commissioner. All authorisations must be notified to his office within seven days of being granted, providing him with real-time oversight of all criminal conduct authorisations.

He will also have oversight of the enhanced safeguards in place for juvenile and vulnerable adult CHIS.