§ Mr. Blakerasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what is his statutory authority for disclosing information in his Department's records concerning individuals to third parties, without the consent of the person concerned, in the circumstances described in his Written Answer to the hon. Member for Blackpool, South, Official Report, 27th February, c. 49.
§ Mr. EnnalsGenerally speaking, disclosure in the circumstances referred to in my reply on 27th February is not governed by statute but is a matter of policy. My Department does not disclose information without the consent of the person concerned unless there are compelling reasons.—[Vol. 945, c.49.]