SIA CP Legal Powers

Question 1

Under UK law, what licence must a close protection operative hold?

Accepted Answer

An SIA Close Protection licence

Answer

A firearms licence

Answer

A police warrant card

Answer

A driving licence only

Question 2

Under Section 3 of the Criminal Law Act 1967, what level of force can a close protection operative use?

Accepted Answer

Reasonable force in the prevention of crime or to effect a lawful arrest

Answer

Maximum force at all times

Answer

No force whatsoever

Answer

Lethal force if the principal is threatened

Question 3

What power of arrest does a close protection operative have under UK law?

Accepted Answer

The power of citizen's arrest under Section 24A of PACE 1984 for indictable offences

Answer

The same powers as a police officer

Answer

No power of arrest at all

Answer

Unlimited power of arrest when protecting a principal

Question 4

What does 'duty of care' mean for a close protection operative?

Accepted Answer

A legal obligation to take reasonable steps to ensure the safety and wellbeing of those they are responsible for

Answer

A legal requirement to carry a first aid kit

Answer

A requirement to work only during daylight hours

Answer

An obligation to carry insurance

Question 5

Under UK law, is it legal for a close protection operative to carry a weapon?

Accepted Answer

No — UK law generally prohibits the carrying of weapons, including firearms and offensive weapons

Answer

Yes, any weapon is permitted

Answer

Only if the principal authorises it

Answer

Yes, but only knives under 3 inches

Question 6

What is the legal significance of 'consent' when a close protection operative physically moves a member of the public?

Accepted Answer

Without lawful justification, physically moving someone without their consent could constitute assault or battery

Answer

Consent is never needed

Answer

Consent is only needed from the principal

Answer

Members of the public have no rights in this situation