Written question asked by Harry Barnes (Labour) on Friday, 16 July 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 21 July 2004. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 July 2004 on behalf of the Department of Trade and Industry.

Dept of Trade and Industry

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, if she will make it her policy to require the manufacturers of phones with camera and video functions to incorporate an audible beep or ring when these functions are used in order to safeguard the privacy of those being photographed.

Answer: Mr. Barnes: To ask the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if she will make it her policy to require the manufacturers of phones with camera and video functions to incorporate an audible beep or ring when these functions are used in order to safeguard the privacy of those being photographed. [185627] Mr. Timms: The Government have no plans to make this a policy requirement. Some mobile phone manufacturers already set their handsets to make a noise particularly when the camera function is used. We are aware that other manufacturers are reviewing their position in the light of concerns expressed by consumers etc.

Secondary information