The legal framework
What's related > Best practice for web pages: summary
The attention of those who publish information in electronic format is drawn to various UK legislation which relates to computer use. Information providers are reminded that it is their responsibility to ensure all material placed on the Server is in accordance with the law. The Internet Publications Officer may remove any material which he/she may feel is not and may refer such information back to the provider to seek advice on its legality.
UK law applies to any publication accessed from the UK via the Internet. This covers material accessed by a direct link from a UK based WWW page, wherever that material originates from and whatever its legal status in its country of origin.
Relevant UK laws include:
Computer misuse Act (1990)
It is likely that any material which incites, encourages or enables others to gain unauthorised access to a computer system would be fond illegal under the Act.Copyright, Designs and Patents Acts
In general, these various Acts require that the permission of the intellectual property MUST be sought before any use is made of it whatsoever. It should be noted that the School logos and titles are the property of the School and they, together with School department addresses, may only be used for official School documents.Data Protection Act
This provides protection of data which is stored in a computer or other electronic information system, that relates to any living person. Though the Act does not require that the permission of each data subject should be sought and obtained before any information, including photographs, relating to them is stored in the system, it would be good practice to do so.Equal Opportunities Act
Any material which discriminates against any person on the grounds of sex, gender and, in some instances, sexual orientation, or encourages such discrimination, contravenes the Act.Race Relations Act
Any material that either discriminates or encourages discrimination on racial or ethnic grounds, contravenes the Act.
Other legal constraints:
Advertising
If advertisements are placed then they must comply with the Code of Practice issued by the Advertising Standards Authority which requires that all advertisements should be " legal, decent, truthful and honest."Libel
Facts concerning individuals or organisations must be accurate and verifiable and views or opinions must not portray their subjects in anyway which would damage their reputation.Pornography
The display of pornographic or sexually explicit material, or publishing access to such material, is not allowed,irrespective of the legality of the material in the country of origin.
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