Part 1: General Privacy Protections Section 12: Abolition or restriction of certain powers to obtain communications data
This section and Schedule 2 restrict general information gathering powers and certain specific pieces of legislation from being used to acquire communications data from a telecommunications or postal operator without the consent of the operator.
	Numerous pieces of legislation provide public authorities with powers to require information in certain circumstances. This section ensures those pieces of legislation will no longer be able to be used to acquire communications data from telecommunications or postal operators.
	This section does not apply where the power specifically relates to telecommunications or postal operators and is exercisable in connection with the regulation of such operators. This is to allow Ofcom and the Information Commissioner’s Office to carry out legitimate regulatory functions, such as ensuring the radio spectrum is used in an effective way. These powers can only be used in such a way if it is not possible for the regulator to use the powers in the Act.
	The restrictions in this section also do not apply where a power is being used to acquire communications data in relation to the conveyance or expected conveyance of any postal item into or out of the United Kingdom. Again, separate powers should only be used if it is not possible for the powers in the Act to be used.
	Schedule 2 lists the powers that are being repealed or modified.