ISPA, the voice of the UK Internet industry, has responded to the publication of David Anderson’s review of investigatory powers and we are pleased the report supported our assertion on the need for a comprehensive new law to replace the myriad of existing and outdated legislation in this area.

ISPA has always maintained that law enforcement should have reasonable access to communications data as long as appropriate oversight arrangements and safeguards are in place. The increased judicial role for warrants, a reformed single oversight body and an update of the legal definition of communications data are also welcome recommendations, as there is a need to regain public trust in the security services and maintain the UK’s reputation as a leading place to do business online.

It will now be important that the Government respects the recommendations before publishing a Draft Bill this Autumn and ISPA looks forward to ensuring the UK Internet industry is heard in the debate.

ISPA Secretary General Nicholas Lansman said “Today’s report is an important contribution and it is now clear that communications data legislation needs to be urgently updated. Regaining public trust in the Internet and ensuring the digital economy can thrive should play a big role in the coming debate and ISPA looks forward to making sure members’ voices are heard.”

About ISPA

 The Internet Services Providers’ Association (ISPA UK) is the voice of the UK internet industry to Government, parliament, regulators, media and the public. For a list of members or other information about ISPA, please visit http://www.ispa.org.uk/ or follow us on Twitter @ISPAUK.

The views expressed in this release are those of the Internet Services Providers’ Association (ISPA) and do not necessarily reflect the corporate policies of the individual companies that are members of the Association or other organisations that may be mentioned in the release. For further editorial information please contact the ISPA Press Office (020 3397 3308 or pressoffice@ispa.org.uk).