Disclosure Manual: Chapter 34 - Handling National Security Related Claims for Public Interest Immunity
Plain-English digest of CPS prosecution guidance.
AI-generated summary — not verbatim. This is a plain-English digest, not the official CPS text. It may omit detail or fall out of date. Do not rely on it for a charging decision — read the full guidance on cps.gov.uk and check the current legislation.
This guidance assists prosecutors in handling Public Interest Immunity (PII) applications related to sensitive material from intelligence and security agencies. It outlines responsibilities regarding ministerial certificates, procedures for liaison with agency legal advisers, and requirements for obtaining and presenting evidence in court. The document emphasizes communication and coordination between prosecutors and agencies to effectively manage sensitive disclosures that impact public interest.
Key points
- Guidance for handling PII applications involving sensitive agency material.
- Prosecutors must understand the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 regarding disclosure.
- Early liaison with agency legal advisers is crucial in managing sensitive material.
- Clear procedures for obtaining ministerial certificates for PII claims are established.
- Coordination is essential to ensure timely submission of disclosure materials.
- Special considerations apply to materials obtained through interception under RIPA.
This is a factual digest of guidance published by the Crown Prosecution Service. Digested 2026-07-15. BlueLineHub is independent and not affiliated with the CPS.