What is Special Branch?
Q: What is Special Branch?
A: Special Branch is the British police force which works mostly for the security services, especially MI5. It has had various changes of name, while its function has stayed much the same.
Q: When was Special Branch formed?
A: Special Branch was formed in London in 1883.
Q: What are some of the main functions of Special Branch?
A: The main functions for all these branches were to collect evidence and arrest the enemies of the United Kingdom who lived on home territory. Historically, these have been the IRA (and its splinter braches), Soviet and Russian intelligence agents, and Islamic extremists and terrorists. Additionally, they use the prefix "Detective" in front of their ranks, are governed by the same laws as general police officers, provide personal protection to VIPs, examine ports and airports as prescribed by Terrorism Act 2000, and do intelligence work between that of Security Service and Metropolitan Police Anti-Terrorist Branch (SO13).
Q: How did Special Branch change in 2006?
A: In 2006 it was announced that Metropolitan Police Special Branch would be merging with Anti-Terrorism branch to form a new department called Counter Terrorism Command. This new department came into being on 2 October 2006.
Q: Do other UK police services still maintain a Special Branch?
A: Yes, most if not all UK police services still maintain a special branch; Strathclyde Police had a special branch until it was renamed Counter Terrorist Intelligence Section.
