Forensic Science Regulator Act 2021

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<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-1"><num>1</num><heading>The Forensic Science Regulator</heading><subsection eId="section-1-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>There is to be a Forensic Science Regulator.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-1-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>In this Act “<term refersTo="#term-the-regulator" eId="term-the-regulator">the Regulator</term>” means the Forensic Science Regulator.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-1-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>The Schedule makes further provision about the Regulator.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-2"><num>2</num><heading>Regulator's duty to publish a code of practice</heading><subsection eId="section-2-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Regulator must prepare and publish a code of practice about the carrying on of forensic science activities in England and Wales.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-2-2"><num>(2)</num><intro><p>The code—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-2-2-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>must specify the forensic science activities to which it applies;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-2-2-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>need not make provision about every forensic science activity;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-2-2-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>may make different provision for different purposes or descriptions of person.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-2-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>The Regulator must publish the code in a way that the Regulator considers is likely to bring it to the attention of persons likely to be interested in it.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-2-4"><num>(4)</num><intro><p>The Regulator—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-2-4-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>must keep the code under review, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-2-4-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>may from time to time prepare and publish alterations to the code or a replacement code.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-2-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>In this Act “<term refersTo="#term-the-code" eId="term-the-code">the code</term>” means the code of practice published under this section that is for the time being in force (as altered from time to time).</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-3"><num>3</num><heading>Code of practice: procedure</heading><subsection eId="section-3-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>Before publishing a code of practice under section 2 or any alterations to the code, the Regulator must consult such persons as the Regulator considers appropriate.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-3-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The persons consulted must include persons appearing to the Regulator to be representative of persons who are, or are likely to be, carrying on activities to which the proposed code or the code as proposed to be altered will apply.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-3-3"><num>(3)</num><intro><p>The Regulator must not publish a code of practice under section 2 or any alterations to the code unless—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-3-3-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>a draft of the code or the alterations has been sent to the Secretary of State,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-3-3-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>the Secretary of State has approved the draft and laid it before Parliament, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-3-3-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the draft has been approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-3-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>A code of practice published under section 2 comes into force on the day specified in it for that purpose.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-3-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>Alterations to the code come into force on the day specified in the alterations for that purpose.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-3-6"><num>(6)</num><content><p>Different days may be specified under subsection (4) or (5) for different purposes.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-4"><num>4</num><heading>Status of the code</heading><subsection eId="section-4-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>A failure by a person to act in accordance with the code does not of itself make that person liable to civil or criminal proceedings.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-4-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The code is admissible in evidence in criminal and civil proceedings in England and Wales.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-4-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>A court may in particular take into account a failure by a person to act in accordance with the code in determining a question in any such proceedings.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-5"><num>5</num><heading>Investigations by the Regulator</heading><subsection eId="section-5-1"><num>(1)</num><intro><p>This section applies if the Regulator has reason to believe that a person may be carrying on a forensic science activity to which the code applies in a way that creates a substantial risk of—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-5-1-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>adversely affecting any investigation, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-1-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>impeding or prejudicing the course of justice in any proceedings.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The Regulator may investigate the carrying on by that person of any forensic science activity to which the code applies.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-3"><num>(3)</num><intro><p>For the purposes of any such investigation, the Regulator may require the person mentioned in subsection (1) to provide to the Regulator—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-5-3-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>copies of documents in the person's possession or control;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-3-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>other information in the person's possession or control.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>A requirement under subsection (3) may include a requirement for information to be provided orally.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>A requirement under subsection (3) is imposed by giving a written notice to the person specifying—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-5-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>a description of the information that is required;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>when, or the time by which, the information is to be provided;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-5-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the form and manner in which the information is to be provided.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-6"><num>(6)</num><content><p>A person may not be required under subsection (3) to do anything that the person could not be compelled to do in proceedings before the High Court.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-7"><num>(7)</num><intro><p>A disclosure of information pursuant to a requirement under subsection (3) does not breach—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-5-7-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>any obligation of confidence owed by the person making the disclosure, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-7-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>any other restriction on the disclosure of information (however imposed).</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-8"><num>(8)</num><intro><p>A person may not be required under subsection (3) to disclose information if to do so—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-5-8-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>would contravene the data protection legislation (but in determining whether the disclosure would do so, the duty imposed by virtue of that subsection is to be taken into account), or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-5-8-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>would be prohibited by any of Parts 1 to 7 or Chapter 1 of Part 9 of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-9"><num>(9)</num><content><p>In subsection (8)(a) “<term refersTo="#term-the-data-protection-legislation" eId="term-the-data-protection-legislation">the data protection legislation</term>” has the same meaning as in the Data Protection Act 2018 (see section 3(9) of that Act).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-10"><num>(10)</num><content><p>The Regulator may bring proceedings for an injunction (including an interim injunction) for the purpose of securing compliance with a requirement imposed under this section.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-5-11"><num>(11)</num><content><p>In this Act “<term refersTo="#term-proceedings" eId="term-proceedings">proceedings</term>” means proceedings before a judicial authority exercising its jurisdiction or functions in England and Wales, within the meaning of section 4 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-6"><num>6</num><heading>Compliance notices</heading><subsection eId="section-6-1"><num>(1)</num><intro><p>This section applies if the Regulator believes that a person is carrying on a forensic science activity to which the code applies in a way that creates a substantial risk of—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-6-1-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>adversely affecting any investigation, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-6-1-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>impeding or prejudicing the course of justice in any proceedings.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The Regulator may serve a compliance notice on the person.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>A compliance notice is a notice requiring the person on whom the notice is served to take one or more steps specified in the notice within the period or by the date specified in the notice.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>A compliance notice may prohibit the person on whom the notice is served from carrying on any forensic science activity in England and Wales specified in the notice until the Regulator is satisfied that a step specified in the notice has been taken or does not need to be taken (see section 7).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>In deciding whether to serve a compliance notice on a person and in determining the content of a notice the Regulator may take into account any failure by a person to act in accordance with the code.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-6"><num>(6)</num><intro><p>A compliance notice must be in writing and include information as to—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-6-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>the Regulator's reasons for serving the notice,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-6-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>rights of appeal (see section 8), and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-6-6-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the consequences of not complying with the notice.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-7"><num>(7)</num><content><p>The Regulator may bring proceedings for an injunction (including an interim injunction) for the purpose of securing compliance with any step or prohibition specified in the notice.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-6-8"><num>(8)</num><content><p>The Regulator may at any time vary or cancel a compliance notice after it has been served by giving notice in writing to the person on whom it was served.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-7"><num>7</num><heading>Completion certificates</heading><subsection eId="section-7-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>This section applies if the Regulator has served a compliance notice on a person under section 6.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-7-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>If the Regulator is satisfied that any step specified in the notice has been taken or does not need to be taken the Regulator must issue a certificate to that effect (a “completion certificate”).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-7-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>A person on whom a compliance notice is served may at any time apply for a completion certificate.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-7-4"><num>(4)</num><intro><p>Within the period of 14 days beginning with the day after the day on which the Regulator receives such an application the Regulator must send to the person—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-7-4-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>a completion certificate relating to the compliance notice, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-7-4-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>written notice of the Regulator's decision not to issue such a certificate together with the Regulator's reasons for that decision.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-7-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>A compliance notice ceases to have effect to the extent specified in a completion certificate relating to that notice on the date the certificate is issued.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-8"><num>8</num><heading>Appeals</heading><subsection eId="section-8-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>A person served with a compliance notice under section 6 may appeal to the First-tier Tribunal against the decision to serve the notice.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-2"><num>(2)</num><intro><p>The grounds for an appeal under subsection (1) are that—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-8-2-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>the decision was based on an error of fact;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-2-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>the decision was wrong in law;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-2-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the decision was unreasonable;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-2-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>any step or prohibition specified in the notice is unreasonable.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-3"><num>(3)</num><intro><p>On an appeal under subsection (1) the First-tier Tribunal may—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-8-3-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>confirm the notice;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-3-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>cancel the notice;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-3-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>vary the notice;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-3-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>remit to the Regulator the decision whether to confirm, cancel or vary the notice.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>A person given notice under section 6(8) of the variation of a compliance notice may appeal to the First-tier Tribunal against the decision to vary the compliance notice.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>The grounds for an appeal under subsection (4) are that—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-8-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>the decision was based on an error of fact;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>the decision was wrong in law;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-5-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the decision was unreasonable;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-5-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>any step or prohibition specified in the compliance notice as a result of the variation is unreasonable.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-6"><num>(6)</num><intro><p>On an appeal under subsection (4) the First-tier Tribunal may—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-8-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>confirm the decision to vary the compliance notice, in whole or in part;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>quash that decision, in whole or in part;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-6-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>vary the compliance notice in a different way;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-6-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>remit to the Regulator the decision whether to vary the compliance notice.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-7"><num>(7)</num><content><p>A person served with a compliance notice under section 6 may appeal to the First-tier Tribunal against a decision not to issue a completion certificate under section 7 relating to that notice.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-8"><num>(8)</num><content><p>The grounds for an appeal under subsection (7) are the grounds mentioned in subsection (2)(a) to (c).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-9"><num>(9)</num><intro><p>On an appeal under subsection (7) the First-tier Tribunal may—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-8-9-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>confirm the decision not to issue a completion certificate;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-9-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>require the Regulator to issue a certificate;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-8-9-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>remit to the Regulator the decision whether to issue a certificate.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-10"><num>(10)</num><content><p>Where a person has brought an appeal under subsection (1), (4) or (7), the First-tier Tribunal may suspend any requirement or prohibition specified in the compliance notice until the appeal is determined, withdrawn or abandoned.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-8-11"><num>(11)</num><content><p>Where an appeal is or may be made to the Upper Tribunal in relation to a decision of the First-tier Tribunal under this section, the Upper Tribunal may suspend any requirement or prohibition specified in the compliance notice until the appeal is determined, withdrawn or abandoned.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-9"><num>9</num><heading>Other functions of the Regulator</heading><subsection eId="section-9-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Regulator may prepare and publish guidance or reports on any matter relating to forensic science activities carried on in England and Wales.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The Regulator may provide advice or assistance relating to forensic science activities carried on in England and Wales to any person.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>The reference to any person in subsection (2) includes any person in a country or territory outside the United Kingdom.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-4"><num>(4)</num><intro><p>As soon as reasonably practicable after the end of each reporting period the Regulator must—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-9-4-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>prepare a report about the exercise of the Regulator's functions during that period,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-9-4-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>publish the report in such manner as the Regulator considers appropriate, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-9-4-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>provide the report to the Secretary of State.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State must lay the report before Parliament.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-6"><num>(6)</num><intro><p>In subsection (4) “<term refersTo="#term-reporting-period" eId="term-reporting-period">reporting period</term>” means—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-9-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>the period of 12 months beginning with the date on which section 1 comes into force, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-9-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>each successive period of 12 months.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-9-7"><num>(7)</num><content><p>The Regulator may do anything (except borrow money) the Regulator thinks necessary or appropriate for the purposes of, or in connection with, the Regulator's functions.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-10"><num>10</num><heading>Disclosure by the Regulator</heading><subsection eId="section-10-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Regulator may disclose to any other public authority any information received by the Regulator in connection with any of the Regulator's functions if the disclosure is made for the purpose of enabling or assisting the other public authority to discharge any of its functions.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-10-2"><num>(2)</num><intro><p>A disclosure of information under subsection (1) does not breach—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-10-2-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>any obligation of confidence owed by the Regulator, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-2-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>any other restriction on the disclosure of information (however imposed).</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-10-3"><num>(3)</num><intro><p>But subsection (1) does not authorise a disclosure of information that—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-10-3-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>would contravene the data protection legislation (but in determining whether a disclosure would do so, the power in that subsection is to be taken into account), or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-3-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>would be prohibited by any of Parts 1 to 7 or Chapter 1 of Part 9 of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-10-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>In subsection (3)(a) “<term refersTo="#term-the-data-protection-legislation" eId="term-the-data-protection-legislation">the data protection legislation</term>” has the same meaning as in the Data Protection Act 2018 (see section 3 of that Act).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-10-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>In this section “<term refersTo="#term-public-authority" eId="term-public-authority">public authority</term>” means—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>any court or tribunal,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>any constable,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>any government department,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>any local authority,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-e"><num>(e)</num><content><p>any person discharging regulatory functions in relation to any description of activities, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-10-5-f"><num>(f)</num><content><p>any other person discharging functions of a public nature.</p></content></level></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-11"><num>11</num><heading>Meaning of “forensic science activity”</heading><subsection eId="section-11-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>In this Act “<term refersTo="#term-forensic-science-activity" eId="term-forensic-science-activity">forensic science activity</term>” means an activity relating to the application of scientific methods for a purpose mentioned in subsection (2).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-11-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>Those purposes are—</p></content></subsection><level class="para1" eId="section-11-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>purposes relating to the detection or investigation of crime in England and Wales;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-11-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>purposes relating to the preparation, analysis or presentation of evidence in criminal proceedings in England and Wales;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-11-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>such other purposes as the Secretary of State may specify in regulations made by statutory instrument.</p></content></level><subsection eId="section-11-3"><num>(3)</num><intro><p>Regulations under subsection (2)(c)—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-11-3-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>must not specify a purpose that could be specified by provision falling within the legislative competence of Senedd Cymru (including any provision that could only be made with the consent of a Minister of the Crown within the meaning of the Ministers of the Crown Act 1975);</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-11-3-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>may make transitional, transitory and saving provision;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-11-3-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>may not be made unless a draft of the statutory instrument containing them has been laid before and approved by a resolution of each House of Parliament.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-11-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>Nothing in this Act affects the exercise by any person other than the Regulator of functions in relation to the regulation of forensic science activities.</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-12"><num>12</num><heading>Crown application</heading><subsection eId="section-12-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>This Act binds the Crown, subject to subsection (2).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-12-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>Sections 5 to 8 do not bind the Crown.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-12-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>A person serving or employed for policing purposes is not to be treated as a servant or agent of the Crown for the purposes of subsection (2).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-12-4"><num>(4)</num><intro><p>The reference in subsection (3) to a person serving or employed for policing purposes is to—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-12-4-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>a member of a police force,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-12-4-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>a special constable appointed under section 27 of the Police Act 1996 or section 25 of the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-12-4-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>a person employed for the purposes of a police force, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-12-4-d"><num>(d)</num><content><p>a community support volunteer or a policing support volunteer designated under section 38 of the Police Reform Act 2002.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-12-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>In subsection (4) “<term refersTo="#term-police-force" eId="term-police-force">police force</term>” includes—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-12-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>the British Transport Police Force,</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-12-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>the Civil Nuclear Constabulary, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-12-5-c"><num>(c)</num><content><p>the Ministry of Defence police.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-12-6"><num>(6)</num><content><p>The reference in subsection (4)(d) to section 38 of the Police Reform Act 2002 includes that section as applied by section 28 of the Railways and Transport Safety Act 2003 (application to British Transport Police).</p></content></subsection></section>
<section xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" eId="section-13"><num>13</num><heading>Extent, commencement and short title</heading><subsection eId="section-13-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>This Act extends to England and Wales only, subject to subsections (2) and (3).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>Each of the amendments in paragraphs 8 to 11 of the Schedule has the same extent as the enactment amended.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>This section extends to England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>This Act comes into force on such day as the Secretary of State appoints by regulations made by statutory instrument, subject to subsection (6).</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-5"><num>(5)</num><content><p>Different days may be appointed for different purposes.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-6"><num>(6)</num><intro><p>The following provisions of this Act come into force on the day on which this Act is passed—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="section-13-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>section 11;</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="section-13-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>this section.</p></content></level></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-7"><num>(7)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may by regulations made by statutory instrument make transitional, transitory or saving provision in connection with the coming into force of any provision of this Act.</p></content></subsection><subsection eId="section-13-8"><num>(8)</num><content><p>This Act may be cited as the Forensic Science Regulator Act 2021.</p></content></subsection></section>
<hcontainer xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" xmlns:uk="https://www.legislation.gov.uk/namespaces/UK-AKN" xmlns:ukl="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/namespaces/legislation" name="schedules"><hcontainer name="schedule" eId="schedule"><num>SCHEDULE<authorialNote class="referenceNote"><p>Section 1</p></authorialNote></num><heading>The Regulator</heading><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Status</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-1" class="schProv1"><num>1</num><content><p>The Regulator carries out functions on behalf of the Crown.</p></content></paragraph><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-2" class="schProv1"><num>2</num><content><p>Service as the Regulator is not service in the civil service of the state.</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Appointment and terms of office</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3" class="schProv1"><num>3</num><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Regulator is to be appointed by the Secretary of State.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The Regulator must be a person who appears to the Secretary of State to have expertise in forensic science.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>The Regulator holds office in accordance with the terms of the Regulator’s appointment.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>Sub-paragraph <ref href="#schedule-paragraph-3-5">(5)</ref> applies to any person who, at the time this Schedule comes into force, holds the office known immediately before that time as the Forensic Science Regulator.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>That person—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>is to be treated as having been appointed as the Regulator by the Secretary of State under sub-paragraph <ref href="#schedule-paragraph-3-1">(1)</ref> at that time, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>holds office as the Regulator in accordance with the terms of the person’s appointment to the office mentioned in sub-paragraph <ref href="#schedule-paragraph-3-4">(4)</ref>.</p></content></level></subparagraph></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Remuneration etc</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4" class="schProv1"><num>4</num><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to or in respect of the Regulator such remuneration as the Secretary of State may determine.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2"><num>(2)</num><intro><p>The Secretary of State may—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>pay such pension, allowances or gratuities as the Secretary of State may determine to or in respect of a person who is or has been the Regulator, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>make such payments as the Secretary of State may determine towards provision for the payment of a pension, allowances or gratuities to or in respect of such a person.</p></content></level></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>Sub-paragraph <ref href="#schedule-paragraph-4-4">(4)</ref> applies if the Secretary of State determines that there are special circumstances which make it right for a person ceasing to be the Regulator to receive compensation.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to the person a sum by way of compensation of such amount as the Secretary of State may determine.</p></content></subparagraph></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Expenses</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-5" class="schProv1"><num>5</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to the Regulator or another person amounts in respect of expenses incurred by the Regulator in the exercise of the Regulator’s functions.</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Staff etc</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-6" class="schProv1"><num>6</num><intro><p>The Secretary of State may, after consultation with the Regulator, provide the Regulator with—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>such staff, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>such accommodation, equipment and other facilities,</p></content></level><wrapUp><p>as the Secretary of State considers necessary for the carrying out of the Regulator’s functions.</p></wrapUp></paragraph><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-7" class="schProv1"><num>7</num><content><p>A person employed in the civil service of the State continues to be employed in the civil service of the State during any period of service as a member of the staff mentioned in paragraph <ref href="#schedule-paragraph-6-a">6(a)</ref>.</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-8" class="schProv1"><num>8</num><content><p><mod>In Schedule 2 to the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (departments etc subject to investigation), at the appropriate place insert—<quotedStructure startQuote="&#x201C;" 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Regulator.</p></item></blockList></quotedStructure></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Freedom of information</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-10" class="schProv1"><num>10</num><content><p><mod>In Part 6 of Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (public authorities to which that Act applies), at the appropriate place insert—<quotedStructure startQuote="&#x201C;" endQuote="&#x201D;" uk:context="body" uk:docName="ukpga" ukl:TargetClass="primary" ukl:TargetSubClass="unknown" ukl:Context="main" ukl:Format="default"><blockList class="unordered none" ukl:Name="UnorderedList" ukl:Decoration="none"><item><p>The Forensic Science Regulator.</p></item></blockList></quotedStructure></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" class="schGroup7"><heading>Public sector equality duty</heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-11" class="schProv1"><num>11</num><content><p><mod>In 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<hcontainer xmlns="http://docs.oasis-open.org/legaldocml/ns/akn/3.0" xmlns:ukl="http://www.legislation.gov.uk/namespaces/legislation" name="schedules" eId="schedules"><hcontainer name="schedule" eId="schedule"><num>SCHEDULE<authorialNote class="referenceNote"><p> Section 1</p></authorialNote></num><heading>The Regulator</heading><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-status"><heading><i>Status</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-1" class="schProv1"><num>1</num><content><p>The Regulator carries out functions on behalf of the Crown.</p></content></paragraph><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-2" class="schProv1"><num>2</num><content><p>Service as the Regulator is not service in the civil service of the state.</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-appointment-and-terms-of-office"><heading><i>Appointment and terms of office</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3" class="schProv1"><num>3</num><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Regulator is to be appointed by the Secretary of State.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-2"><num>(2)</num><content><p>The Regulator must be a person who appears to the Secretary of State to have expertise in forensic science.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>The Regulator holds office in accordance with the terms of the Regulator's appointment.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>Sub-paragraph (5) applies to any person who, at the time this Schedule comes into force, holds the office known immediately before that time as the Forensic Science Regulator.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5"><num>(5)</num><intro><p>That person—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>is to be treated as having been appointed as the Regulator by the Secretary of State under sub-paragraph (1) at that time, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-3-5-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>holds office as the Regulator in accordance with the terms of the person's appointment to the office mentioned in sub-paragraph (4).</p></content></level></subparagraph></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-remuneration-etc"><heading><i>Remuneration etc</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4" class="schProv1"><num>4</num><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-1"><num>(1)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to or in respect of the Regulator such remuneration as the Secretary of State may determine.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2"><num>(2)</num><intro><p>The Secretary of State may—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>pay such pension, allowances or gratuities as the Secretary of State may determine to or in respect of a person who is or has been the Regulator, or</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-4-2-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>make such payments as the Secretary of State may determine towards provision for the payment of a pension, allowances or gratuities to or in respect of such a person.</p></content></level></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-3"><num>(3)</num><content><p>Sub-paragraph (4) applies if the Secretary of State determines that there are special circumstances which make it right for a person ceasing to be the Regulator to receive compensation.</p></content></subparagraph><subparagraph eId="schedule-paragraph-4-4"><num>(4)</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to the person a sum by way of compensation of such amount as the Secretary of State may determine.</p></content></subparagraph></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-expenses"><heading><i>Expenses</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-5" class="schProv1"><num>5</num><content><p>The Secretary of State may pay to the Regulator or another person amounts in respect of expenses incurred by the Regulator in the exercise of the Regulator's functions.</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-staff-etc"><heading><i>Staff etc</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-6" class="schProv1"><num>6</num><intro><p>The Secretary of State may, after consultation with the Regulator, provide the Regulator with—</p></intro><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-6-a"><num>(a)</num><content><p>such staff, and</p></content></level><level class="para1" eId="schedule-paragraph-6-b"><num>(b)</num><content><p>such accommodation, equipment and other facilities,</p></content></level><wrapUp><p>as the Secretary of State considers necessary for the carrying out of the Regulator's functions.</p></wrapUp></paragraph><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-7" class="schProv1"><num>7</num><content><p>A person employed in the civil service of the State continues to be employed in the civil service of the State during any period of service as a member of the staff mentioned in paragraph 6(a).</p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-investigation-by-the-parliamentary-commissioner"><heading><i>Investigation by the Parliamentary Commissioner</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-8" class="schProv1"><num>8</num><content><p><mod>In Schedule 2 to the Parliamentary Commissioner Act 1967 (departments etc subject to investigation), at the appropriate place insert— <quotedText>“ The Forensic Science Regulator. ”</quotedText></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-house-of-commons-disqualification"><heading><i>House of Commons disqualification</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-9" class="schProv1"><num>9</num><content><p><mod>In Part 3 of Schedule 1 to the House of Commons Disqualification Act 1975 (other disqualifying offices), at the appropriate place insert— <quotedText>“ The Forensic Science Regulator. ”</quotedText></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-freedom-of-information"><heading><i>Freedom of information</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-10" class="schProv1"><num>10</num><content><p><mod>In Part 6 of Schedule 1 to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 (public authorities to which that Act applies), at the appropriate place insert— <quotedText>“ The Forensic Science Regulator. ”</quotedText></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer><hcontainer name="crossheading" ukl:Name="Pblock" eId="schedule-crossheading-public-sector-equality-duty"><heading><i>Public sector equality duty</i></heading><paragraph eId="schedule-paragraph-11" class="schProv1"><num>11</num><content><p><mod>In Part 1 of Schedule 19 to the Equality Act 2010 (authorities subject to the public sector equality duty), in the group of entries under the heading “Criminal justice”, at the appropriate place insert— <quotedText>“ The Forensic Science Regulator. ”</quotedText></mod></p></content></paragraph></hcontainer></hcontainer></hcontainer>