Data easing for the UK?

In a recent press release issued by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, with the leading title “Unleashing Data’s Power”, it was announced:

“The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is set for an overhaul to drive greater innovation and growth in the UK’s data sector and better protect the public from major data threats, under planned reforms announced by the Digital Secretary Oliver Dowden today.

• Plans include tougher penalties for nuisance calls and text messages.
• Government wants new data regime “based on common sense, not box ticking” to cement UK’s position as a science and tech superpower.
• Consultation launched today will also examine what more can be done to mitigate algorithmic bias.
• World-leading experts appointed to the Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation’s advisory board to drive trustworthy innovation.

According to government sources the reforms will:

• Cement our position as a science superpower, simplifying data use by researchers and developers of AI and other cutting-edge technologies.
• Build on the unprecedented and life-saving use of data to tackle the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Secure the UK’s status as a global hub for the free and responsible flow of personal data – complementing our ambitious agenda for new trade deals and data partnerships with some of the world’s fastest growing economies.
• Reinforce the responsibility of businesses to keep personal information safe, while empowering them to grow and innovate.
• Ensure that the ICO remains a world-leading regulator, enabling people to use data responsibly to achieve economic and social goals.”