http://www.theregister.co.uk/2008/08...ates/comments/
In the comments section of The Register Home Office/Phorm article of the 11th, David Pollard makes a very good point. (21:24 GMT).
If the Home Office didn't know about the trials, where many tens of thousands of UK citizens had their communications intercepted for extended periods, then they have fallen down very badly on their national security remit.
Even if BT hadn't told them, they
should have known.