In Plain English
AI-generatedInvestigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024 is now law. It updates the existing framework for surveillance and data interception used by the UK’s security services and police. The bill began in the Lords and, after passing both Houses, received Royal Assent and became an Act.
Key Points
- It amends the Investigatory Powers framework to update how surveillance powers are used and overseen.
- The Act has received Royal Assent and became law.
- In the final Lords stage (March 2024), the vote was 257 Aye to 38 No, indicating broad but not universal approval.
- Party support in the Lords was mixed, with some groups backing the measure and others opposing; Labour (Co‑op) notably voted against in earlier stages and final stages.
- The bill’s passage continues a long-running policy debate about state powers to monitor communications and data.
Progress
The bill has completed its passage through Parliament and is now enacted as law. It originated in the Lords.
Voting
In the final Lords vote, the bill passed with a strong majority (257 Aye, 38 No). Across parties, support and opposition were mixed: Conservatives and some other groups backed the measure, while Labour (Co‑op) largely opposed; Lib Dems generally supported; other parties varied in their positions.
Who is affected?
General public and individuals who could be subject to surveillance or data interceptionPolice, security and intelligence agencies operating under the Investigatory Powers regimeTelecommunications and digital service providers handling communications dataOrganisations involved in data privacy, civil liberties monitoring and oversight
Generated 21 February 2026