Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) code of practice A (stop and search) - coming into operation on 19 March 2015
Published 13 May 2015
© Crown copyright 2015
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This publication is available at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/circular-0122015-police-and-criminal-evidence-act-1984-pace-code-of-practice-a-stop-and-search-coming-into-operation-on-19-march-2015/police-and-criminal-evidence-act-1984-pace-code-of-practice-a-stop-and-search-coming-into-operation-on-19-march-2015
Dear Chief Officer,
This circular highlights the coming into operation of the Revised Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE), code of practice A for stop and search on Thursday 19 March 2015.
As explained in Home Office Circular 21/2014, revised code A was laid before Parliament on 5 December 2014 together with a draft order for approval by affirmative resolution of both Houses of Parliament to bring it into operation 21 days after the order is made. The order was made on 26 February 2015 for the code to come into operation on 19 March 2015. The order (SI 2015/418) and explanatory memorandum are published.
The main changes in the revised code implement the government’s commitment, as set out in the consultation on stop and search, to “Revise the Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (PACE) code of practice A to make clear what constitutes ‘reasonable grounds for suspicion’ - the legal basis upon which police officers carry out the vast majority of stops. The revised code will also emphasise that where officers are not using their powers properly they will be subject to formal performance or disciplinary proceedings”
The attached document updates the document attached to Circular 21/2014 and reproduces the revised code with the commencement date shown, together with supporting notes which identify and explain the changes. The revised code is also published.
Should you have any queries, please contact either John de Sousa or Brian Roberts (Police Integrity and Powers Unit) on 020 7035 4848.