Three Members of the IPT are required, with at least one representing the jurisdiction of Northern Ireland, to perform certain statutory functions under Part IV of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers 2000 Act (RIPA) as amended by section 242 of the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (IP Act). It is expected that the successful applicants will take up their posts in the middle of 2022 and at the start of 2023.
The IPT exists to investigate complaints about:
- conduct by various public bodies, in relation to individuals, their property or communications
- any alleged conduct by or on behalf of MI5, MI6 and GCHQ (Government Communications Headquarters).
The Tribunal also has jurisdiction to consider claims under the Human Rights Act 1998 of infringements by certain bodies.
The IPT has a UK-wide jurisdiction. Its President is Lord Justice Singh and the Vice-President is Lord Boyd of Duncansby.
We are looking for distinguished lawyers with a proven track record of expertise capable of being applied to the work of the IPT, who are able to make informed and reliable decisions on issues which can be of national importance. The successful candidates will have considerable experience in the law at a senior level, be familiar with Administrative Law and have a sufficient knowledge or understanding of RIPA, the Intelligence Services Act 1994, the IP Act, the Human Rights Act 1998 and the recent judgment of the Grand Chamber of the European Court of Human Rights in Big Brother Watch & Ors v UK. Judicial experience will be an advantage.
Members can expect at least 15 days work annually for which they are paid a daily fee equivalent to that paid to a deputy High Court judge. Additional payment(s) will also be made and full details of these are available in the information pack. Travel and subsistence costs will also be paid where applicable.
The appointments will be for an initial period of 5 years. All appointments are made by HM The Queen on the advice of the Prime Minister.
Members of the Tribunal are expected to step down on reaching the age of 75 and those who are appointed will be expected to be able to do a reasonable period of service (at least two years).
How to apply
If you think you have the qualities required and want to apply for a post please click on the following link https://publicappointments.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/appointment/members-of-the-investigatory-powers-tribunal/
The closing date for returning applications is 23:00 on Monday, 14 March 2022.
The selection panel will be chaired by Lord Justice Singh.
If interviews are necessary, they will take place in April 2022, in London.
