22 Mar 2012

Search and surveillance bill passes final reading

9:21 pm on 22 March 2012

The Government's Search and Surveillance Bill has passed its third and final reading.

The bill, which replaces temporary legislation covering current police investigations, was passed by 61 votes to 57; National, ACT and United Future voted in support.

Justice Minister Judith Collins says the legislation brings search and surveillance powers up to date with 21st-century technology while safeguarding human rights.