To ask Her Majesty's Government further to the answer by Lord Young of Norwood Green on 1 March (Official Report, House of Lords, col. 1187), what public information is provided on the functions of the Information Commissioner's Office in relation to unsolicited recorded telephone messages.

Among other things, the ICO is the UK's independent regulator of the Data Protection Act 1998 and the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations 2003. The ICO is responsible for ensuring compliance with this legislation, including promoting and enforcing the lawful processing of personal data in relation to unsolicited recorded telephone messages and responding to any complaints that involve the processing of personal data.

The ICO produces a range of publications to inform individuals about their rights and the ICO's functions in relation to unsolicited marketing (including recorded telephone messages). It also publishes guidance for organisations on legislation and good practice. All of these publications are available on the ICO's website.

In addition, on 4 March 2010 the ICO issued updated guidance for political parties and candidates covering a range of communication techniques including telephone calls, including automated calls. The guidance applies to direct marketing campaigns, for example, encouraging individuals to vote for a particular party or candidate, and appealing for funds and support for campaigns.