To ask the Minister of State, Department for Constitutional Affairs what assessment she has made of the benefits which have resulted from the introduction of the Data Protection Act 1998. (95687)

As with all legislation the Government keep the workings of the Data Protection Act under review. The results of the 2006 Information Commissioners Office Annual Tracker Survey of private and public organisations show that 89 per cent. agreed that the Act was needed. In addition to this, 80 per cent. of private organisations agreed that it improved information management, 81 per cent. agreed it improved customer trust and 60 per cent. agreed it adds value to the business. The Act is an important piece of legislation that ensures there is a proper legal framework to protect the way that personal data are processed. Individuals also benefit as the Act allows subject access rights in relation to personal data that are is held about them.