Missing data (bills)

How the government collects and stores communications data (logs of calls, emails and webpages visited - but not their content) has been hugely controversial. In July we were told by a listener that the Home Office were considering plans to collect and store communications data in a central database. At the time the plans were condemned by Richard Thomas the Information Commissioner as, "a step too far" In October, the Home Secretary Jacqui Smith revealed further details about what was being considered, and announced that there would be a consultation, and it seems that has resulted in a postponement of plans for a Bill.

It's a story that we're still interested in. We're also keeping an eye on another issue that listeners have alerted us to, the sharing of public data and the legislation covering it. Do get in touch if you've something to say about either issue.