Written question asked by Nick Hurd (Conservative) on Monday, 1 February 2010, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 3 February 2010. It was answered by Nick Harvey (Liberal Democrat) on Tuesday, 9 February 2010 on behalf of the House of Commons Commission.

Members: Communication

Question: To ask the hon. Member for North Devon, representing the House of Commons Commission with reference to the answer of 13 October 2009, Official Report, column 781, on Members: security, what methods of email encryption are compatible with hon. Members' computers; and if the Commission will make it its policy to provide a directory of encryption certificates used by hon. Members for the use of constituents seeking to encrypt their communications.

Answer: The House of Commons Commission does not release information relating to software configuration as to do so risks jeopardising the security of the parliamentary network. Members are welcome to consult PICT to find out what encryption software is available to them.It is a matter for individual Members whether to make details of their encryption software available to their constituents.

Secondary information