The Public Stores Act of 1875 is a piece of legislation in the United Kingdom which applied to all stores under the care of the Secretary of State, including "any public department or office, or of any person in the service of Her Majesty." Although in parts now superseded by subsequent legislation, or otherwise defunct, some sections are still in force. This includes a power of stop and search that is still available to police constables today.
The Act
The legislation created various offences relating to the destruction or concealment of such stores, unlawfully possess or steal such stores, and also empowered police constables to stop and search any vehicles or vessels in which he has reasonable grounds to suspect is carrying any aforementioned stores which had been obtained illegally. This power of stop and search is still exercisable by constables today. Other than the Poaching Prevention Act of 1862, it is the oldest search power in UK legislation.
The act also prohibited searching for stores, or sweeping or dredging within 100 yards of any naval base, wharf or warehouse, or moored vessel of the Royal Naval or any such properties belonging to the Royal Artillery.