Information Commissioner says he needs stronger powers

Concerns about the increased levels of intrusion into people's daily lives and the amount of data being gathered continue to grow.

The Information Commissioner, Richard Thomas, who last November warned in a report, A Surveillance Society, that "we were in danger of sleepwalking into a surveillance society", reiterated his concerns to the Home Office Select Committee this month.

He has therefore proposed new safeguards to prevent unwarranted surveillance and asked for new powers that will allow the Information Commissioners Office (ICO) to ensure these are adhered to; currently the ICO must gain consent before inspecting an organisation for compliance with the Data Protection Act.

"It is wrong that my Office cannot find out what is happening in practice without the consent of each organisation. The risks that arise from excessive surveillance affect both individuals and society as a whole.

"As well as risks such as identity mistakes and security breaches there can be unnecessary intrusion into people’s lives and loss of personal autonomy. There is also a concern that too much surveillance will create a climate of fear and suspicion," Thomas warned.

He also welcomed the news that the House of Lords Constitution Committee has independently launched an inquiry into the impact government surveillance and data collection have upon the people's privacy.

"While I do not believe that we are living in the type of society associated with totalitarian regimes it is important that there is a vigorous debate around the issue of surveillance," Thomas told the Select Committee.