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Last week’s Leveson report set out wide-ranging proposals designed to improve the culture, practices and ethics of the press, including comment on the ICO and Data Protection Act.

From an initial reading, it is clear the report offers much for the ICO to consider, and we’ll reflect on where improvements can be made to the ways in which we carry out our statutory duties.

We were pleased to see the report support stronger sentences for people who steal or illegally trade in personal data. We would expect this to offer a significant deterrent if implemented. The impact on the press would be minimal, with an enhanced public interest defence available to journalists.

The report proposes significant changes to some parts of the Data Protection Act, where the ICO is responsible for regulating compliance. While this is a matter for the Ministry of Justice to consider, we will be offering our views on the detail and practical effects of the proposals in a response to the Leveson Report which we will publish early in the New Year.

Notes to Editors

1. The Information Commissioner’s Office upholds information rights in the public interest, promoting openness by public bodies and data privacy for individuals.
 
2. The ICO has specific responsibilities set out in the Data Protection Act 1998, the Freedom of Information Act 2000, Environmental Information Regulations 2004 and Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003.

3. The ICO is on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn, and produces a monthly e-newsletter. Our Press Office page provides more information for journalists.

4. If you need more information, please contact the ICO press office on 0303 123 9070.