I've just had a reply from Liz Lynne one of my MEP's who was very quick to raise questions in the EU about Phorm.
Her latest update is as follows
Dear Ms ***************
I am writing to you further to my previous letter regarding your concerns over Phorm advertising software. I have recently received a reply from Baroness Shriti Vadera of the Department for Business Enterprise and Regulatory Reform regarding a letter I sent to her outlining your fears.
Baroness Vadera informs me that the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is currently examining the proposed use of Phorm to ensure that any use of the technology is compatible with the current legislation relating to privacy. The ICO has published its preliminary view on Phorm, which can be found at
http://www.ico.gov.uk/about_us/news_...e_and_oie.aspx.
Baroness Vadera also states that the Home Office has been in contact with ISPs to discuss how the use of Phorm relates to the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act. However, she notes that not all applications of Phorm will necessarily contravene this act.
Finally, I am assured by Baroness Vadera that both she and the ICO have been in contact with those ISP’s hoping to run trials involving Phorm to discuss their plans and will be maintaining close contact with ISPs and Phrom throughout any subsequent trials.
Yours sincerely
Liz Lynne MEP
Which doesn't really tell us any more than what we don't already know, but my respect goes to her for at least keeping me informed on developments, and the fact she's still asking questions on the issue.