Overview

This bill amends the Prisons (Interference with Wireless Telegraphy) Act 2012, allowing the Secretary of State to authorise public communications providers to interfere with wireless telegraphy in prisons and similar institutions to prevent or detect the use of prohibited items.

Description

The bill primarily modifies the 2012 Act by adding clauses that permit the Secretary of State to authorize public communications providers (like mobile phone companies) to jam or intercept wireless signals within prisons and similar institutions. This authorization is specifically for preventing or detecting the use of contraband items, such as mobile phones, within these facilities. The Secretary of State will issue directions to both the communications providers and prison authorities, outlining how this interference should be carried out and what data needs to be collected and shared, including safeguards to minimize disruption outside prison walls. The bill also clarifies what actions are considered lawful under this authorization, including the retention and disclosure of collected data.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The cost will likely involve administering the authorization process, overseeing compliance, and potentially compensating communication providers for the intervention.

Groups Affected

• Prisoners: Their ability to use prohibited communication devices will be significantly restricted.
• Prison staff: Their work will be affected by the implementation and management of the signal interference.
• Public communications providers: They will be responsible for implementing the signal interference, potentially incurring costs and facing legal obligations.
• Individuals living near prisons: There's a possibility of some unintentional interference with their wireless signals, although the bill aims to minimize this.
• The Office of Communications (Ofcom): They will receive information about the interference activities.

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