Published Monday, 06 February 2012
A consultation into proposed amendments to the use of stop and search powers. (© UTV)
It will look into the draft Code of Practice (Northern Ireland) for the use of the special powers as contained in the Terrorism Act 2000.
The Code of Practice sets out statutory guidance to PSNI members regarding the process of stopping and searching members of the public under sections 43, 43A and 47A of the Terrorism Act 2000, as amended by the Protection of
Freedoms Bill.
Mr Paterson said: "The Protection of Freedoms Bill amends stop and search powers contained within the Terrorism Act 2000. These changes ensure that counter terrorism stop and search powers are used proportionately, where necessary and in accordance with the law.
"A draft Code of Practice for the exercise of these stop and search powers is open to consultation to everyone who wishes to comment."
The Secretary of State added that the "aim of the Code is to promote the fundamental principles to be observed by the PSNI and to preserve the effectiveness of, and public confidence in, the use of counter terrorism stop and search powers."
The documents can be read on the NIO website.