NEWS28 October 2024
UK – The UK government has launched a new bill to unlock secure and effective data for the public interest, which it says could boost the economy by £10bn.
The Data Use and Access Bill, which was introduced to parliament last week, will use data to help cut down bureaucracy for public services, such as the police and NHS, and also help simplify administrative tasks for the public, such as renting a flat and starting work, through new ways to verify identity online.
The bill, delivered by the Department for Science, Innovation, and Technology, will have its measures underpinned by a revamped Information Commissioner’s Office, with a new structure and powers of enforcement.
In addition, the bill will seek to support the future of open banking and the growth of new smart data schemes – models which allow consumers and businesses who want to safely share information about them with regulated and authorised third parties to generate personalised market comparisons and financial advice to cut costs.
The government said it hoped that the bill would pave the way for the models to expand in sectors such as energy, which could give customers the ability to compare utility prices, find better deals and reduce their energy use, as well as foster tech innovation and boost competition.
A range of exemptions to consent for cookies are listed in the bill, including strictly necessary, statistical purposes, website appearance and emergency assistance being provided, according to the Data & Marketing Association (DMA).
Technology secretary Peter Kyle said: “Data is the DNA of modern life and quietly drives every aspect of our society and economy without us even noticing – from our NHS treatments and social interactions to our business and banking transactions.
“With laws that help us to use data securely and effectively, this bill will help us boost the UK’s economy, free up vital time for our front-line workers and relieve people from unnecessary admin so that they can get on with their lives.”
DMA chief executive officer Chris Combemale said: “Our members will welcome maintaining a high level of data protection and the current accountability framework. Getting the balance right is essential to building trust in both the public and private sectors, ensuring that people have confidence in the modern products and services that will improve their lives.
“We are in full support of the government’s vision to unlock the power of data to grow the economy and improve people’s lives and look forward to continuing to support our members in line with the new measures introduced to parliament today.”