UK Data protection

[Gary Creighton]

I was in a construction business partnership until 18 months ago. I/we used an accountant as an agent for partnership and self assessment returns. I now require printed copies of everything the accountant holds re partnership/self assessment. Should I pay £80 per hour or can I ask for copies under the Data Protection Act?

 

[Fidget]

Ask for copies, although expect a fairly hefty 'admin fee' to be applied. I doubt you could get it for free under the Data Protection Act.

 

[Gary Creighton]

Self assessment is a personal tax which I think would be covered and the partnership figures were given to work out SA so hopeful it will be covered

 

[Fidget]

Why would furnishing you with copies of anything free of charge fall under data protection act?

 

[Gary Creighton]

Why would furnishing you with copies of anything free of charge fall under data protection act?

Obviously there is a fee I think its about a tenner
Surely an individual has a right for copies of information held by a business


This is the sixth data protection principle, and the rights of individuals that it refers to are:

• a right of access to a copy of the information comprised in their personal data;
• a right to object to processing that is likely to cause or is causing damage or distress;
• a right to prevent processing for direct marketing;
• a right to object to decisions being taken by automated means;
• a right in certain circumstances to have inaccurate personal data rectified, blocked, erased or destroyed; and
• a right to claim compensation for damages caused by a breach of the Act.

 

[Gary Creighton]

In brief – what is an individual entitled to?
This right, commonly referred to as subject access, is created by section 7 of the Data Protection Act. It is most often used by individuals who want to see a copy of the information an organisation holds about them. However, the right of access goes further than this, and an individual who makes a written request and pays a fee is entitled to be:

• told whether any personal data is being processed;
• given a description of the personal data, the reasons it is being processed, and whether it will be given to any other organisations or people;
• given a copy of the information comprising the data; and given details of the source of the data (where this is available).

 

[Fidget]

I hear what you're saying, but you aren't applying as an individual in the context of the above.

 

[Gary Creighton]

I hear what you're saying, but you aren't applying as an individual in the context of the above.

Yes as only individuals can apply

 

[Fidget]

..but it is business information you're looking for rather than what information is held on you as an individual.

 

[Gary Creighton]

No im asking for personal information although it is information when collated was probably used for the business side