In Plain English
AI-generatedThe Covert Human Intelligence Sources (Criminal Conduct) Act 2021 creates a framework that allows undercover sources to commit crimes while gathering information, but only with formal authorisation and strict safeguards. It mainly applies to police and security services, and includes a five-year sunset for review; it has now become law after passing Parliament.
Key Points
- - CHIS (covert human intelligence sources) may engage in criminal conduct only when properly authorised and if it is necessary and proportionate to achieve a legitimate objective.
- - Safeguards and oversight are provided by independent bodies and by Parliament to prevent abuse and protect rights.
- - The Act applies to police and security services that use CHIS in the course of operations.
- - It includes a five-year sunset clause, with a review mechanism to decide whether the powers should continue.
- - The bill’s passage involved debates and amendments in the Lords, with the Commons ultimately voting to accept the bill and it becoming law.
Progress
The Bill has completed its journey and received Royal Assent, becoming law. It started in the Commons in 2020, went through the Lords with proposed amendments, and was then finalised in 2021.
Voting
Across votes, the Conservative Party backed the bill, while Labour and most other opposition parties opposed or were divided. The Lords amendments were largely disagreed with by the Commons, and the bill ultimately passed into law.
Who is affected?
Police and security services that use covert human intelligence sources (CHIS)Covert human intelligence sources themselvesPeople who may be targeted or interact with CHIS operations (suspects, witnesses)Members of the public whose privacy could be affected by CHIS activitiesLegal professionals and the courtsCivil liberties and human rights organisationsOversight bodies and Parliament responsible for monitoring these powers
Generated 21 February 2026