Written question asked by Norman Baker (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 29 November 2001, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 4 December 2001. It was answered by Bob Ainsworth (Labour) on Tuesday, 4 December 2001 on behalf of the Home Office.

Home Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, what analysis he has conducted to ensure the provisions relating to retention and use of communications data traffic are consistent with the provisions of the (a) Data Protection Act 1998, (b) Telecommunications (Data Protection and Privacy) Regulations 1999 and (c) Human Rights Act 1998; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Norman Baker: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what analysis he has conducted to ensure the provisions relating to retention and use of communications data traffic are consistent with the provisions of the (a) Data Protection Act 1998, (b) Telecommunications (Data Protection and Privacy) Regulations 1999 and (c) Human Rights Act 1998; and if he will make a statement. [20443] Mr. Bob Ainsworth: I am satisfied that the code of practice relating to the retention of communications data as provided for in the Anti-Terrorism, Crime and Security Bill will be drafted in such a way to be fully compliant with the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1998, the Telecommunications (Data Protection and Privacy) Regulations 1999 and the Human Rights Act 1998. We will consult the Information Commissioner to help ensure that this is achieved. Access to communications data will in future be regulated by Chapter 2 of Part 1 of the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, which requires that access be necessary and proportionate.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 20443; 376 c226-7W;376 c227-8W
Session: 2001-02
Subjects: Disclosure of information Data protection Codes of practice Crime prevention Computers ICT Privacy Terrorism Telecommunications
Legislation: Data Protection Act 1998; Human Rights Act 1998; Telecommunications (Data Protection and Privacy) Regulations 1999
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk