Commentary on Parts Part 2 – Sexual Harm Interim orders Section 21 – Interim orders
110.Section 21 allows the chief constable to apply for an interim SHPO where an application has been made for a full order.
111.Subsection (1) gives power to a sheriff to make an interim SHPO while the main application under section 12 is being determined. The sheriff may make such an order if the sheriff considers it just to do so (subsection (2)) and such an order may contain prohibitions or requirements (or both) in relation to the person in respect of whom the order is to have effect, for a fixed period (subsection (5)). Different periods may apply to different prohibitions and requirements (subsection (6)). The prohibitions or requirements will apply throughout the United Kingdom (unless expressly confined to particular localities) (subsection (4)).
112.Subsection (7) makes procedural provision for an interim SHPO application to be made at the same time as an application for a full SHPO, or separately in accordance with rules of court.
113.Subsection (8) provides that sex offender notification requirements will apply to interim SHPOs in the same way as they do to full SHPOs.
114.Subsection (9) provides that an interim SHPO will cease to have effect on the determination of the related application for a SHPO under section 12 or when all prohibitions or requirements in the order cease to have effect.
115.Subsections (10) and (11) allow for an application for variation, renewal or discharge of an interim SHPO to be made to a sheriff in the sheriffdom of the sheriff who dealt with main application for a full SHPO under section 12. Such an application may be made by the person in respect of whom the order was made or the chief constable.