Following the recent speculation around the communications data bill, ISPA Chair Mark Gracey replied:
“Following the recent speculation surrounding the Communications Data Bill, we are looking for some clarity from Government that the draft bill will not be brought forward in its current form.
This is an important and sensitive issue for industry and the wider internet community. We have consistently argued that any new powers should be workable and proportionate. As was raised during the draft bill’s scrutiny by the Joint Committee, we are yet to be convinced that the current proposals for a bill will meet these requirements, in particular the third party data retention requirements and the request filter.
We urge Government to reassess the current proposals and ensure, as recommended by the Joint Committee, that industry and other stakeholders are properly consulted in any future review of powers.”