

Several organisations raised concerns about the newly introduced data bill.
The Department for Science, Innovation and Technology introduced the Data (Use and Access) Bill on October 23. Organisations expressed concerns of privacy and data protection regarding the legislation.
According to the House of Lords research briefing the new bill would expand and create a new “lawful base”, which will simplify the data transformation process when it fits into “recognised legitimate interests”.
It would also change the governance model of the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO).
The new bill included several provisions similar to those of the Conservatives’ Data Protection and Digital Information Bill, which had not been completed before the general election.
Labour’s bill removed some provisions, such as those giving power to the government over the ICO’s strategies.
The new bill also included some new provisions, such as regulation-making power, which would allow researchers to access data held by tech companies relating to online safety.
The ICO stated that the new bill “represents a positive and balanced package of reforms”.
Some concerns were raised about the new law by civil society groups.
Legal and Policy Officer for Open Right Group, Mariano delli Santi, said: “The Data Use and Access Bill weakens our rights and gives companies and organisations more powers to use automated decisions.”
Legal and Policy Officer for Big Brother Watch, Susannah Copson, said: “This Bill waters them down by simultaneously eroding privacy protections and restricting peoples’ control over their own data.”
She also said the advancement of a digital ID framework seriously impacted privacy and individual autonomy.
The Government stated that people’s data will be protected by high standards.
Health and Social Care Secretary, Wes Streeting, said: “I know people worry about Big Brother, which is why data will only be shared to the most relevant staff and anybody using data must comply with strict security protocols.”
The Government stated the Bill will “unlock the power of data,” and enhance effectiveness in a wide range of public services, such as underground infrastructure and flat rental. It also stated it would potentially boost £10 billion in economic growth, free 1.5 million hours of police time and 140,000 NHS staff hours yearly.