This year’s event has succeeded in attracting a good range of keynote speakers, including Sir Martin Sorrell, CEO of WPP; Will Hutton, CEO of the Industrial Society; and e-MORI’s Nicky Perrott. The range of papers to be given is equally impressive, covering research topics as diverse as the prevalence of child abuse and the hidden truth about criminality.

In addition Elizabeth France, the Data Protection Commissioner, has agreed to deliver the keynote address on the ever-important subject of "The Ethics of Market Research". It is hoped that her paper will thoroughly evaluate the many pressing data protection issues affecting the MR industry. In addition, it should form the basis of an in-depth discussion as to the possible effects of data protection in the future. France’s session will open the first day of the conference.

According to the Director General of The Market Research Society, David Barr, "In light of recent developments in data protection and the introduction of the new 1998 Act, as well as the many issues arising from various new applications of information technology, it is vital that researchers and the marketing community generally have a clear understanding of the regulator’s outlook. The Market Research Society has been leading the representation on data protection issues and has remained in regular contact with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner to highlight important issues for research on both supply and client side and to clarify interpretation of the new legislation. We are delighted that Elizabeth France has agreed to address Research 2001 as part of a session focusing on ethics. Her insight will undoubtedly prove invaluable and I am sure that delegates will enjoy a lively and informative debate."