16 July 2008
The Information Commissioner Richard Thomas has said that plans to record all telephone calls in the UK by the government may be breaching data protection. Mr Thomas stated that any such database - which would also include a log of internet site visits - should only be created after consultation with the public. Home Office proposals recommend that companies operating in the telecoms and online sectors give over records to try and cut down on crime. Individuals should have a say on whether or not such avenues are opened up, he added, because people's privacy should not be eroded. He argued: "Do we really want the police, security services and other organs of the state to have access to more and more aspects of our private lives?" In related news, it is expected that identity cards will be issued to UK residents beginning in 2009. The Identity Cards Act became law in 2006.
© 2008 Adfero Ltd
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