§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales, pursuant to his answer of 5 December, Official Report, column 805, what guidance with regard to the protection of the confidentiality of personal information is given to members of his staff; to what level of juniority such guidance is issued; and if he is satisfied with the operation of this guidance within his Department.
§ Mr. Nicholas EdwardsAll permanent, casual and agency staff at all levels employed by the Department are 47W required to sign the Official Secrets Act. This applies also to retiring civil servants. Every permanent member of staff receives on joining the Department a copy of a handbook for the new civil servant which contains guidance on such matters as the Official Secrets Act and security. All staff are also given a copy of the Department's security rules which draws attention to the Department's handbook and the advice given there on the disclosure of official information.