Commentary on Sections Schedule 8: Abolition of SOCA and NPIA Section 16: Interpretation of Part 1
279.Subsection (1) defines various terms used in Part 1, including “chief officer”, “functions”, “NCA function”, “law enforcement agency” and “permitted purpose”. The definition of “strategic partners” refers to those other law enforcement agencies and other key bodies to which, for example, the Director General must send a copy of the NCA’s Annual Report.
280.Subsection (2) clarifies that a reference to the powers and privileges of a constable is a reference to any powers and privileges of a constable. It also provides that references to the “Police Service of Northern Ireland” (“PSNI”) are taken to include the PSNI Reserve.
281.Subsection (3) provides that any subsequent reference to the “functions” or “officers” of the National Crime Agency should be understood within the terms of Part 1 of the Act.
282.Subsection (4) identifies those terms which are defined elsewhere in Part 1 of the Act.