Paul,
"In deciding what amounts to a reasonable interval, the following factors
should be considered: the nature of the data, the purpose for which the data
are processed and the frequency with which the data are altered." (BSI Disc
Guide)
Assuming that the original request was in writing, I would feel justified in
refusing the request given that the information had not changed and was not
likely to change on a regular basis.
I've read Peter Wilson's reply and disagree that it might save hassle in the
future. I think it is unlikely to cause hassle with the ODPC, but if you do
it this time you will have set a precedent that could potentially become a
millstone for you every four months.
For discussion, I would say once a year would be reasonable in this
situation.
Allan Yuill
-----Original Message-----
From: Paul Simpkins [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: 14 September 2000 11:42
To: 'Mailbase DP'
Subject: what is reasonable
One of my Council's tenants was given access to her house file (material
relating to her tenancy mostly on paper) four months ago and took some
photocopies. She has just written back and asked for a photocopy of the
whole file. She has also asked to inspect it again before/whilst it is being
done.
Is this a reasonable request? Has a reasonable period of time elapsed since
her last access? Is this mischievous, vexatious or frivolous? There have
been no significant additions to the file since the last access except for
letters she has written to us. Should we allow this access which will take
up considerable officer time and resources or can we turn her down. This
tenant has made a significant number of complaints to many council
departments on a broad range of issues.
Data Protection Compliance Officer
City of Bradford MDC
01274-753500
[log in to unmask]
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