We are currently developing our approach to licensing private investigators.

During 2005 and 2006 we consulted extensively with individuals and representatives working within the private investigation sector on the possible approaches for licensing.

The options for licensing were presented by the Home Office in a partial Regulatory Impact Assessment (download size: 820kb). Individuals and organisations with an interest in this sector had until 24 October 2007 in which to respond with their comments. The responses to the consultation (download size: 136kb) were published by the Home Office on 7 May 2008. A full Implementation Impact Assessment (IIA) will provide details of the approach that will be taken. What is an IIA?

Precognition Agents

Precognition agents interview witnesses for the purposes of, or in anticipation of, criminal or civil proceeding in Scotland. Proposals for the licensing of precognition agents are being considered in parallel with the development of licensing for private investigators. This is because of a similarity in the activities undertaken by both groups.