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Dept of the Environment Transport and the Regions

Answer

Mr. Matthew Taylor: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions in what way his Department is revising its internal guidance to staff for writing and distributing e-mails; for what reasons his Department is revising this guidance; and if he will place in the Library a copy of the current internal guidance on e-mail procedures. [151902] Ms Beverley Hughes: General advice to staff on the use of e-mail is contained within the Staff Handbook, in particular rules governing inappropriate use of Departmental resources, and is supported by guidance. It is being reviewed to ensure it remains appropriate and conforms to recent legislation on Human Rights, Data Protection and regulation of Investigatory Powers. When the review is completed the resulting policy, procedures and guidance will all be placed in the Staff Handbook. Concern about the effects of information overload on the work of the department has led to some simple `golden rules' that help everyone to handle e-mail efficiently. An expanded set is to be considered by the Departmental Board for issue shortly. I am arranging to place a copy of this material in the Library.

Secondary information

Type

Written question

Reference

151902; 364 c150W

Session

2000-01

Subjects

Codes of practice Government departments Email Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions

Link

View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk