Overview

This bill amends the Prisons (Interference with Wireless Telegraphy) Act 2012, allowing the Secretary of State to authorize 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 interfere with wireless signals within prisons. This interference can only be used to prevent or detect the use of specific, prohibited items inside prisons in England and Wales. The authorization can apply to individual prisons, types of institutions, or all prisons generally. The bill also includes provisions for safeguards. These safeguards include directions from the Secretary of State to the communications providers on how to conduct the interference, specifying information to be shared with prison authorities, the Secretary of State, and the Office of Communications (Ofcom), and outlining circumstances under which interference should be modified or stopped. The goal is to prevent disproportionate disruption of wireless services outside prisons.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending figures. The cost will likely be associated with the implementation of the new authorization process, oversight, and potential compensation or legal challenges. Precise figures are not available from the provided text.

Groups Affected

• Prisoners: This bill could impact prisoners by potentially limiting their ability to use wireless communication devices within prisons.
• Prison staff: The bill may affect prison staff by providing them with potentially more information concerning wireless communications within the prisons.
• Public communications providers: Mobile network operators and other relevant providers will be affected as they may be required to cooperate and potentially incur costs associated with implementing the new powers.
• The Secretary of State: Takes on the responsibility of authorizing interference and setting guidelines.
• Office of Communications (Ofcom): Will receive information according to the bill's provisions.

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