Finally, the UK's trade association for providers of internet services, ISPA, issued one of the most damning statements, in which it said that the Bill has the potential to put the UK at a competitive disadvantage and destabilise the market. It said that it could make the UK a less attractive and more onerous place to do business digitally.

ISPA commented: "Far too much discretion is given to the Home Secretary without the necessary Parliamentary oversight to ensure that significant changes proposed are proportionate and necessary."

"Parliament should be told what data will be retained, for what purposes and make sure that the necessary safeguards are in place to balance the differing interests of law enforcement, users and businesses."

All responses will now be examined by the parliamentary joint committee.