(1)Paragraph 4 of Schedule 5 to the Data Protection Act 1998 (appointment of officers and staff of the Information Commissioner) is amended as follows.
(2)After sub-paragraph (4) insert—
“(4A)In making appointments under this paragraph, the Commissioner must have regard to the principle of selection on merit on the basis of fair and open competition.”
(3)Omit sub-paragraph (5) (approval of Secretary of State required for number, and terms and conditions, of persons to be appointed).