Commentary on provisions of Act Section 2: Appropriate officers
This section defines the meaning of "appropriate officer", with the effect that only those categories or descriptions of persons listed can make an application for an overseas production order. Separate provision is made in relation to England, Wales and Northern Ireland; and in relation to Scotland.
	Some categories of appropriate officers may only exercise functions under the Act if they are exercising that function for a particular purpose. For example, an accredited financial investigator may only exercise the function when it is for the purpose of certain types of proceeds of crime investigations. These limitations are designed to ensure that it is only where the appropriate officer is exercising functions related to their role in the investigation or prosecution of criminal conduct that they may apply for an overseas production order.
	The Secretary of State may specify additional descriptions of appropriate officers by way of regulations. Before exercising that power in relation to Scotland, the Secretary of State must consult the Scottish Ministers (see section 17).