Personal Smartphones Government Business 2024-01-18
2024-01-18
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The prevalence of personal smartphone use for Government business by Ministers and officials has been a topic of concern due to potential security risks.
What recent assessment he has made of the prevalence of the use of personal smartphones for conducting Government business by Ministers and officials?
The Cabinet Office does not hold data centrally regarding personal smartphone use. We are committed to ensuring that Government business is conducted securely and to supporting individuals in meeting their security responsibilities. In March last year, we published guidance concerning the use of non-corporate communication channels for Government business, which set out considerations around the use of private devices.
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Assessment & feedback
The prevalence data or assessment was not provided.
We Are Committed To Ensuring Secure Government Business
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The use of private communication channels such as WhatsApp by Ministers, officials and advisers has led to a loss of public confidence in government accountability.
Will the Minister look again at this to see how we can have good, accountable and transparent government?
The right hon. Gentleman raised important points. I draw his attention to the document we published last year: “Using non-corporate communication channels (e.g. WhatsApp, private email, SMS) for government business”. I think he will be particularly interested in the summary table on page two.
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Assessment & feedback
No commitment was given to review or update the guidance.
I Draw His Attention To The Document We Published Last Year
Response accuracy