RIPA

The Council employs a number of investigative techniques, including surveillance, which assist its regulatory functions. Relevant areas of activity include investigations by Internal Audit, Benefits Fraud Team, Environmental Health, Licensing, CCTV Services and MAPs Team.
  
In accordance with RIPA, its subordinate legislation and Codes of Practice, the Council regulates its relevant surveillance activities. As well as robust systems for internal control, the Council is also subject to external inspections by the Office of Surveillance Commissioners (which monitors the use of directed surveillance and covert human intelligence sources) and the Interception of Communications Commissioner’s Office (which monitors the acquisition of communications data).