§ Mr. MaclennanTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to secure amendment of the draft EC directive on data protection to protect the fund-raising activities of the United Kingdom voluntary sector; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. RumboldThe Government are aware of concerns among various organisations, including those in the voluntary sector, about the likely effects of the draft directive on direct mailing. In discussion with other member states, we are seeking to ensure that the notification and consent provisions are modified in such a way as to avoid unreasonable restrictions on data use. Negotiations on the directive are likely to continue throughout next year.