Miscellaneous and general

14Search warrants for offences under section 1

1

Where a circuit judge is satisfied by information on oath given by a constable that there are reasonable grounds for believing—

a

that an offence under section 1 above has been or is about to be committed in any premises; and

b

that evidence that such an offence has been or is about to be committed is in those premises;

he may issue a warrant authorising a constable to enter and search the premises, using such reasonable force as is necessary.

2

The power conferred by subsection (1) above does not extend to authorising a search for material of the kinds mentioned in section 9(2) of the [1984 c. 60.] Police and Criminal Evidence Act 1984 (privileged, excluded and special procedure material).

3

A warrant under this section—

a

may authorise persons to accompany any constable executing the warrant; and

b

remains in force for twenty-eight days from the date of its issue.

4

In executing a warrant issued under this section a constable may seize an article if he reasonably believes that it is evidence that an offence under section 1 above has been or is about to be committed.

5

In this section “premises” includes land, buildings, movable structures, vehicles, vessels, aircraft and hovercraft.

6

This section does not extend to Scotland.