<p>A method and apparatus for operating a downhole tool (20). The method comprises the steps of providing a conduit (26) for the passage of fluid therethrough. The conduit (26) comprises at least one reader which can read data and which is also arranged for the passage of fluid therethrough. The method further includes coupling a downhole tool (20) to the or each reader and providing at least one tag. The or each tag is capable of containing data. The method also includes moving the or each tag within the conduit (26) and at least partially through the reader such that the reader is capable of reading data from the tag when the tag passes through the reader. This method enables remote operation of the downhole tool (20).</p>
