The Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security
has today published Dr Renwick's (Independent National Security Legislation Monitor) report 'Trust but Verify'—A report concerning the Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment (Assistance and Access) Act 2018 and related matters.
Dr Renwick's report fulfils the Committee's referral request that he undertake a review of the operation, effectiveness and implementation of amendments made by the Telecommunications and Other Legislation Amendment (Assistance and Access) Act 2018 (TOLA) with a focus on whether the Act: contains appropriate safeguards for protecting the rights of individuals; remains proportionate to any threat of terrorism or threat to national security, or both; and remains necessary.
In his report Dr Renwick concluded that, with two exceptions, 'TOLA is or is likely to be necessary'. Regarding proportionality and proper rights protection, Dr Renwick also stated that 'TOLA will be compliant if, but only if, the central recommendations in this report are implemented'.
Committee Chair, Mr Andrew Hastie MP noted that the Committee's current review into the amendments made by TOLA will build on the findings presented in Dr Renwick's report.
"The Committee welcomes Dr Renwick's report, the final report in his role as the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor and recognises the quality of the review work that was undertaken," Mr Hastie said.
Dr Renwick's term as the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor concluded on Tuesday 30 June 2020.
"On behalf of the Committee, I thank Dr Renwick for his valuable contributions and delivery, at the highest standard, of independent review work in the national security space," said Deputy Chair, Hon Mr Anthony Byrne MP.
"The Committee wishes Dr Renwick all the very best in his future endeavours".
