§ Mr. WebbTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how many cases of computer misuse there were in his Department in(a) 1997 and (b) 2003, broken down by category of misuse; and how many of those cases resulted in disciplinary action. [163250]
§ Ms Rosie WintertonThe Department takes very seriously any misuse of its information technology systems. All computer users are made aware of the Department's acceptable use policy, which is brought to the attention of new users and is available on the Department of Health Intranet.
Figures for the year 1997 are not available. The table shows the total recorded cases of significant breaches of the Department's acceptable use policy. Figures cover downloading of inappropriate material, loading of unauthorised software and the storage and circulation of inappropriate emails. A more detailed breakdown of these figures is not available. Management checks indicate only a small number of the breaches involve inappropriate content.
2003 Type of misuse Total cases Internet 2 5 Internet and e-mail 0 Total no of cases 7 Police conviction 1 Action outstanding 2 Disciplinary action taken 4