To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer what plans he has to propose the inclusion in the draft directive on integrated services digital network a statement that the directive will not apply to communications relating to financial services. [1220]

It is intended that the directive will apply to financial services. My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade is aware of the concerns raised by the financial services industry and its regulators. The Government are seeking to balance the interaction between investor protection and industry practice with the need for adequate data protection.