I recognise that in certain circumstances that might be appropriate, but the challenge in this case is the fast-paced nature of technology,
which means we would always be playing catch-up. The original RIPA legislation was therefore intended to be technology neutral so that, if the technology moved on, it was still able to capture that, just as our criminal law is intended to cover all forms of communications. I think that might be a better way of seeking to achieve that. However, that is part and parcel of David Anderson’s review of RIPA, and therefore the existing legislation and a number of the themes that have been touched on by right hon. and hon. Members in this debate, and also the continuing utility of these provisions.