In the debate over government’s role on the Internet, online privacy is the latest issue to take center stage. Policy makers are concerned that web sites abuse their power to collect and distribute information about Internet users, particularly children. Until recently, legislators have taken a hands-off approach, waiting for online businesses to self-regulate and alleviate privacy concerns on their own. But Washington’s patience is waning, and the 106th Congress will likely consider an onslaught of regulations intended to protect privacy on the Internet.

Sir – Although I agree with your leader on the information trade ("Data Dogfights", January 9^th), I lament your failure to highlight the irony of the European Union’s privacy directive. It is based on the idea that privacy is an inalienable right. This belief stems from Europe’s lingering fear, bred during the second world war, that dictatorial governments may re-emerge and misuse their authority to monitor citizens.