(1) A reference in
this section to making an application includes a reference to giving
information in support of the application.
(2) An application
under section 246 must be made by the authorised officer in person unless
—
(a) the
warrant is needed urgently; and
(b) the
applicant reasonably believes that a judicial officer is not available within
a reasonable distance of the applicant.
(3) If subsection
(2)(a) and (b) apply —
(a) the
application may be made to a judicial officer by remote communication; and
(b) the
judicial officer may grant the application only if satisfied about the matters
in subsection (2)(a) and (b).
(4) An application
under section 246 must be made in writing unless —
(a) the
application is made by remote communication; and
(b) it
is not practicable to send the judicial officer written material.
(5) If subsection
(4)(a) and (b) apply —
(a) the
application may be made orally; and
(b) the
judicial officer must make a written record of the application and any
information given in support of it.
(6) An application
under section 246 must be made on oath unless —
(a) the
application is made by remote communication; and
(b) it
is not practicable for the judicial officer to administer an oath to the
applicant.
(7) If subsection
(6)(a) and (b) apply —
(a) the
application may be made in an unsworn form; and
(b) if
the judicial officer issues a warrant, the applicant is as soon as is
practicable to send the judicial officer an affidavit verifying the
application and any information given in support of it.