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Abstract

Part I of this paper reviewed the issues which make up the subject of data protection and reasons for legislation. This second part examines in detail the development of legislative proposals in the United Kingdom, culminating in the Data Protection Bill currently before Parliament. The Committee on Data Protection (Lindop) recommended regulation by a Data Protection Authority enforcing statutory Codes of Practice for different data processing applications. This failed to find favour with the Conservative Government which preferred a scheme of registration enforced by an independent Registrar. The data protection lobby (including groups from the computer industry, trade unions, professions, business and civil liberties) were critical of the proposals; particularly those dealing with exemp tions from the law. Their comments are summarised and the response by the Government described.

Some of the underlying political reasons for the develop ment of data protection in the U.K. are discussed. It is by understanding the decision-making process relating to legisla tion that those involved with information technology can play an effective role in its regulation and development.

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Data protection in the United Kingdom,Part 2

Abstract

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