The Code of Data Matching Practice is a statutory code, and all organisations that participate in the Commission’s data matching exercises, including the Commission itself, are required to have regard to it. The Code sets out best practice standards both for the Commission and for all organisations that take part in its data matching exercises.

It has been developed with the benefit of input from a range of stakeholders who have responded to consultation. In drawing up this Code, the Commission has also taken account of the Information Sharing Framework Code of Practice prepared by the Information Commissioner.

The Code creates a balance between the important public policy objective of stopping fraud, and the need to pay due regard to the rights of those whose data are matched for this purpose.

© Audit Commission 2008