Written question asked by Lord Dykes (Liberal Democrat), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Baroness Vadera (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 2008.

Data Loss

Question: asked Her Majesty's Government:What is their response to the Information Commissioner's remarks about the increased loss of confidential information on databases and the danger of abuses arising therefrom.

Answer: I refer the noble Lord to the Written Ministerial Statement by the then Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster regarding the data handling report, 25 June 2008 (Official Report, col. 26 WS). Data loss is a problem both for the private and public sector and the Government take the loss of personal data very seriously. The number of breaches reported to the Information Commissioner's Office reflects the Government's commitment to transparency on data security incidents, as set out in the Data Handling Report. In addition to greater transparency and scrutiny, the Data Handling Report puts in place clear accountability within departments, specific technical measures, and a process of cultural change to ensure the appropriate handling of personal data.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 5996; 705 c301WA
Session: 2007-08
Related items: Data: Storage and Use
Wednesday, 25 June 2008
Written statements
House of Lords
Subjects: Data protection Government departments
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk