Disclosure Manual: Chapter 9 - Highly Sensitive and CHIS Material
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 It may omit detail or fall out of date.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 outlines the handling and disclosure of highly sensitive material in prosecutions, detailing procedures for documenting and managing such material, especially when it poses risks to life or national security. It emphasizes the importance of a separate listing for highly sensitive items and protocols for interaction between the police and Crown Prosecution Service (CPS). The guidance also provides insights on specific security and handling measures that must be implemented throughout the legal process.
Key points
- All sensitive unused material must be included on the MG6D.
- Highly sensitive material must be documented separately in exceptional circumstances.
- Material posing a risk to life or national security is classified as highly sensitive.
- Consultation between police and the CPS should occur as soon as possible regarding sensitive material.
- File endorsements should indicate the existence of sensitive material without disclosing its nature.
- Sensitive material remains under police control until returned post-case.
Public-interest factors
- Public safety and security
- Protection of life
- Integrity of judicial procedures
- Successful prosecution of serious offences
- Prevention of national security threats
- Maintaining trust in law enforcement
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.