25 July 2008: In a judgement handed down in the High Court of Justice today, it was confirmed that the Security Industry Authority (SIA) has the power to prosecute offences under the Private Security Industry Act 2001.

Andy Drane, Deputy Chief Executive of the SIA said:

"I am pleased that this judgement has confirmed our understanding. As we have always said, prosecution is not our preferred option but we will initiate proceedings when we think it is appropriate to do so.

Our normal compliance approach, which falls short of going to the Courts, is made more effective by the threat and reality of prosecution."

The full text of the judgement can be read here.