December 2007
Data protection powers and penalties
The ICO has issued a paper setting out the case for amending the Data Protection Act 1998. The Information Commissioner submits that introducing these changes would significantly increase the ability of his office to deliver its commitment to: “Strengthening public confidence in data protection by taking a practical, down-to-earth approach - making it easier for the majority of organisations who seek to handle personal information well and tougher for the minority who do not”.
December 2007
Privacy Impact Assessment handbook and surveillance society conference
On 11 December 2007 the Information Commissioner’s Office hosted a conference entitled 'Surveillance Society: Turning Debate into Action' at the Bridgewater Hall in central Manchester.
November 2007
Data Protection Officer Conference 2008
Speakers at the forthcoming annual ICO Data Protection Officer Conference include Michael Wills MP and the Information Commissioner, Richard Thomas. The conference will be held on 10 March 2008.
October 2007
FOI publication scheme initiative
Every public authority subject to the Freedom of Information Act 2000 is required to adopt and maintain a publication scheme, as part of the commitment to routinely and proactively provide information to the public. The ICO has proposed a new model publication scheme.
August 2007
The collection and use of identity information in pubs and clubs
Following concerns raised by Conservative Party Shadow Home Secretary, James Brokenshire MP, the Information Commissioner responded with a statement on the collection and use of identity information in pubs and clubs. The Commissioner recognised the importance of ensuring that this information is not collected unnecessarily or used inappropriately and is held securely.
August 2007
Introduction to determining what is personal data
The ICO has issued some new guidance on determining what counts as personal data, for the purposes of the Data Protection Act.
May 2007
Unfair penalty charges
The ICO has published a statement on unfair penalty charges.
April 2007
Response to complaint about email from the Prime Minister
The Information Commissioner has issued a statement in response to a number of complaints about emails from the Prime Minister to signatories of a road pricing petition. The ICO determined that the matter does not constitute a breach of the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations or the Data Protection Act.