It is apparent to all in the House and has become increasingly evident over recent months that there is a problem with the low level of public awareness of the legislative measures, the safeguards and the framework. The interception of communications commissioner has produced an extremely good report on the use of these powers, in particular by GCHQ, rebutting many allegations about mass surveillance and considering targeting and warranting. However—I hesitate to say this—his report has probably been read by perhaps a handful of people in this country. What can the Home Secretary do to ensure that there is much more public awareness? Hopefully, the annual transparency reports and the new boards will help, but it is urgent and pressing that the public should understand exactly what the framework is, what the authorities and powers are and what the agencies are doing.
Data Retention and Investigatory Powers Bill
Proceeding contribution from
Hazel Blears
(Labour)
in the House of Commons on Tuesday, 15 July 2014.
It occurred during Debate on bills on Data Retention and Investigatory Powers Bill.
Type
Proceeding contribution
Reference
584 c715 
Session
2014-15
Chamber / Committee
House of Commons chamber
Subjects
Librarians' tools
Timestamp
2021-07-28 10:46:40 +0100
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