SERIOUS ORGANISED CRIME AND POLICE ACT

KEY BENEFITS

• Protecting the public is the Government's top priority. Everyone in the community has the right to live in a safe and secure environment, free from the fear of crime
• It is our vision to reduce the harm caused by organised crime and make the UK the most hostile environment for organised criminals to operate
• The fight against organised crime will be led by Serious Organised Crime Agency (SOCA), working closely with the police, intelligence agencies, Asset Recovery Agency, HMRC and others
• Essential that we provide SOCA, the police and police staff with the right level of powers to prevent, disrupt and investigate crime and combat anti-social behaviour at all levels
• In particular, the Bill will enable SOCA staff and police, acting under the supervision of DPP, to compel people to co-operate with investigations; place Queen's Evidence on a statutory footing; streamline police powers of arrest and search in the Police and Criminal Evidence Act; and extend the powers of Community Support Officers and other police support staff
• In a democratic society, every one has the right to voice their opinion and to demonstrate, but human rights of freedom of speech and assembly must be balanced by citizens' responsibilities to others. No one has the right to intimidate or harass others going about their lawful business or to disrupt the workings of Parliament. Those working in the bioscience industry deserve the full protection of the criminal law where their human rights are being threatened

IMPLEMENTATION

• The Agency will be established from April 2006. Other provisions of the Act are expected to come into force between July 2005 and April 2006.

TERRITORIAL EXTENT

• The Bill will extend to England and Wales. Various provisions, including SOCA, witness protection and amendments to Proceeds of Crime Act, also extend to Scotland and/or Northern Ireland.