The code of practice on the use of employee data expected this month is
unlikely to be out before March, according to the Information Commission.
Employers need the code to help clarify confusion, particularly over staff
e-mails and internet use.
The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000 and its associated
regulations appear to justify covert monitoring of communications without prior
consent for a wide range of reasons.
But the Information Commissioner’s draft code of practice indicated that
consent and knowledge would be necessary in every case.
A recent survey indicated that 60 per cent of work e-mails are personal.
