Opening the ICO’s Data Protection Practitioners’ Conference on 8 October, Information Commissioner John Edwards said that the data bill, expected “quite soon”, will bring welcome changes to the ICO’s structure and powers, for example the right to compel witnesses to attend interviews and answer questions in relation to an investigation. He said that the ICO is becoming more agile in its enforcement – the recent decision to fine the Police Service of Northern Ireland £750,000 was taken in just eight months. Edwards said that 60% of complex cases are now resolved in six months. While fewer cases are dealt with, the penalties are issued more quickly.