81Search warrants in relation to embargo notice

81 Search warrants in relation to embargo notice

(1) If a thing is subject to an embargo notice, an inspector, with the written approval of the Authority, may apply to a magistrate for the issue of a search warrant permitting entry to the premises where the thing is kept or required to be kept for the purposes of monitoring compliance with an embargo notice.

(2) The magistrate may issue the search warrant in accordance with the Magistrates' Court Act 1989 if the magistrate is satisfied by evidence, on oath or by affidavit, of the inspector that the warrant is necessary for the effective monitoring of compliance with an embargo notice.

(3) A search warrant issued under subsection (2) may authorise the inspector, together with any other person or persons named or otherwise identified in the warrant and with any necessary equipment—

(a) to enter the premises specified in the warrant, by force if necessary; and

(b) to search for, seize and secure against interference the thing named in the warrant.

(4) Except as provided by this Act, the rules to be observed with respect to search warrants under the Magistrates' Court Act 1989 extend and apply to search warrants issued under subsection (2).