The Data Protection Act
The Data Protection Act (DPA) gives a statutory right to request access to personal data to the person who is the subject of that data. You can view the Act online at the Office of Public Sector Information (OPSI) website.
Every organisation that deals with personal data has to inform the Information Commissioner of the purposes for which they use this data.
The FCO is legally obliged to:
- protect personal information
- release it to the individual concerned if requested, and
- amend or delete the information as appropriate.
There are limited exemptions to releasing information (for example national security).
All public authorities and private companies are bound by the Data Protection Act. You can find more information about the Data Protection Act on the Information Commissioners Office website:
To find out how to request your personal data from the FCO, please visit our Request Information pages.