New database an Orwellian step too far

12.00.00pm GMT Tue 20th May 2008

Commenting on the Government's plans for a giant database of electronic information which would hold details of every phone call and email sent in the UK, Liberal Democrat Shadow Home Secretary, Chris Huhne said:

"Ministers have taken leave of their senses if they think that this proposal is compatible with a free country and a free people.

"Given their appalling track record of data loss, this Government simply cannot to be trusted with such private information.

"This is an Orwellian step too far."