Some information I passed on in the last issue about Data Protection wasn’t quite the full ticket. I pointed out a refinement to the Data Protection Act 1998 which excuses retailers from registering if they have static cameras which don’t particularly target anyone.

David Cuckson, of Parkside Service Station in Scunthorpe, thought this info had come in the nick of time as his registration with the compliance department was due. But when he checked with the Information Commissioner’s office (01625 545700) he was told that, if his cameras picked up anybody’s number plate, then he had to comply with the Act and register. I don’t suppose there’s much point in a forecourt having a camera if it doesn’t record the comings and goings of cars. Five minutes before I spoke to David he had had a drive-off and was looking for all the evidence he could lay his hands on!