DEVON County Council's response to concerns about the way it lost confidential information when several laptops and other devices were stolen simply beggars belief.

As I predicted in this newspaper yesterday, the authority tried to deflect criticism by blaming the thieves for their woes.

However, in a statement, Councillor Des Hannon conveniently glossed over the fact one laptop had indeed been lost and at least one other stolen from an employee's car...outside their home.

Once again, earnest lines were trotted out about the authority's "strict policies" and "constant reminders".

Well, here's a reality check, guys – THEY AREN'T WORKING!

Meanwhile, Cllr Hannon's attitude towards those affected by the loss of data demonstrated breathtaking arrogance. First of all, he said that none of the details contained on the stolen items was "serious enough" to report to the Information Commissioner.

That's despite the fact that Devon County Council told us yesterday that in nine of the 15 cases of theft it did not know what data had gone missing!

Among the information it was aware had gone astray were children's photographs and personal information on young volunteers.

Not serious?

Oh, and some of the stolen devices contained "a small amount of data relating to an individuals (sic) immediate work".

Not serious?

What is most worrying about the county's handling of this episode is rather than admitting that its policies weren't working, a team of officers and councillors spent the day concocting a statement full of excuses and contradictions.

Well, that simply isn't good enough.

And, yes, this is serious.