§ Mr. CohenTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what plans he has to restrict the use of encryption algorithms to protect the activities of the law enforcement agencies. [29696]
§ Mr. Ian TaylorThere are no plans to introduce measures which would restrict the use of encryption algorithms. As I have made clear in previous answers, however, discussions have been taking place between Government Departments on the type of arrangements 141W that could be introduced to provide encryption services for business whilst preserving the effectiveness of the law enforcement agencies. No decisions have yet been taken.
We are watching closely developments in the USA and the impact they may have on commercial interests in the United Kingdom.