Consumer Credit Bill-Data Sharing Opinions??

[hme.4x4]

I have just spent a happy evening reading House of Commons Debates in connection with Data Sharing (I know someone will tell me I need to get a life) and this debate grabbed my attention.

 

The link is below, sorry for any old timers heaving a sigh if you have seen this before, but I haven't and I'd like an opinion please.

 

The section highlighted in red is what I would like to query.

It seems that there was no provision before the introduction of the Data Protection Act 1998 for consumers to consent to their data being used. i.e. in credit applications, contracts etc there was no consent box.

 

I know for a fact that several of my accounts were opened long before 1998 and therefore is it correct to say that there was no provision for my consent to be given and CRA's are operating this data sharing without any consent in place at all??? Maybe I am just clutching at straws again but this is one aspect I hadn't thought of. Anyone please?

 

Sorry about the bold I couldn't get it off for some reason!)

 

http://www.theyworkforyou.com/debates/?id=2005-07-14a.980.2

House of Commons debates

 

Thursday, 14 July 2005

 

 

Orders of the Day — Consumer Credit Bill

 

 

 

New Clause 1 — Data Sharing

 

 

 

Let me deal with the historic problem, which the new clause tackles. The Data Protection Act 1998 requires lenders to notify individuals that their data will be shared and the purpose for which they will be used. That legislation led in due course to the industry including standard clauses in the application process to ensure the consent and knowledge on the part of the consumer for any new agreement after data protection legislation came into force. There is no problem for new agreements; consumers have given their consent. However, there is no provision for any account opened or agreement made before the introduction of the standard clauses in contracts. Nothing provides for consumers to agree to their data being shared.

[hme.4x4]

Bumping

 

I am really hoping someone can pick up on this?

[enamae]

MY understanding of it is that before the Data protection Act 1998 there was no protection.