This code of practice relates to the powers and duties conferred or imposed under Chapter 2 of Part 1 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 relating to the acquisition of communications data by public authorities and its disclosure by communications service providers (ie postal or telecommunications services). It provides guidance on the procedures to be followed for the acquisition of communications data and describes communications data. It sets out rules for the grant of authorisations to acquire data , the giving of notes to require disclosure of data and the keeping of records, including records of errors. The code is aimed at members of public authorities who are invoved in the acquisition of communications data whether as an applicant, a single point of contact, a designated person or a senior responsible officer and to communication service providers' staff involved in the lawful disclosure of communications data.