New data laws to “cut down pointless paperwork for businesses and reduce annoying cookie pop-ups” are being introduced by the government today in Parliament.
The Data Protection and Digital Information Bill was first introduced last Summer and paused in September 2022 so ministers could engage in a co-design process with business leaders and data experts – ensuring that the new regime built on the UK’s high standards for data protection and privacy, and seeks to ensure data adequacy while moving away from the ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach of European Union’s GDPR.
Data is fundamental to fuelling economic growth in all areas of society from unlocking medical breakthroughs to helping people travel, manage their finances and shop online. It is vital to the development and use of innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Data-driven trade generated 85 per cent of the UK’s total service exports and contributed an estimated £259 billion for the economy in 2021.
The government claims the new bill will:
- Introduce a simple, clear and business-friendly framework that will not be difficult or costly to implement – taking the best elements of GDPR and providing businesses with more flexibility about how they comply with the new data laws
- Ensure our new regime maintains data adequacy with the EU, and wider international confidence in the UK’s comprehensive data protection standards
- Further reduce the amount of paperwork organisations need to complete to demonstrate compliance
- Support even more international trade without creating extra costs for businesses if they’re already compliant with current data regulation
- Provide organisations with greater confidence about when they can process personal data without consent
- Increase public and business confidence in AI technologies by clarifying the circumstances when robust safeguards apply to automated decision-making
Today’s data reforms are expected to unlock £4.7 billion in savings for the UK economy over the next 10 years and maintain the UK’s internationally renowned data protection standards so businesses can continue to trade freely with global partners, including the EU.
Science, Innovation and Technology Secretary Michelle Donelan said: “Co-designed with business from the start, this new Bill ensures that a vitally important data protection regime is tailored to the UK’s own needs and our customs.
“Our system will be easier to understand, easier to comply with, and take advantage of the many opportunities of post-Brexit Britain. No longer will our businesses and citizens have to tangle themselves around the barrier-based European GDPR.”
“Our new laws release British businesses from unnecessary red tape to unlock new discoveries, drive forward next generation technologies, create jobs and boost our economy.”
Responding to the bill, Konrad Shek, director of policy research, Advertising Association, said: “The Advertising Association broadly welcomes the introduction of the new version of the DPDI Bill and what has been achieved to date, with the added clarity to the use of legitimate interest, especially with regard to direct marketing; the inclusion of commercial research under research provisions; and reduction of overall paper requirements. We hope there will be further opportunities to amend the Bill particularly in areas linked to non-intrusive cookies, such as increased clarity and flexibility over audience measurement and for ad performance.
“We look forward to continue working with government as a member of the Business Advisory Group on how this Bill can most effectively support the work of our industry, both in the UK and as a global hub for digital advertising and marketing services.”
Chris Combemale, chair of the DPDI Business Advisory Group and CEO of the Data & Marketing Association (DMA UK), added: “We are confident that DPDI should act as a catalyst for innovation and growth, while maintaining robust privacy protections across the UK – an essential balance which will build consumer trust in the digital economy. Attracting and retaining customers and donors is a fundamental legitimate interest of businesses and charities, so we are delighted the government has acknowledged this in the reforms to help drive innovation and growth.
“The DMA has collaborated with the government throughout the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill (DPDI)’s development to champion the best interests of both businesses and their customers. We were well placed to advise on these developments over the past two years through our strong relations with UK businesses and government. It was important to our community that we focused reforms on the needs of both businesses and their customers to ensure the right balance was achieved for all. Therefore, it was essential for the Bill to safeguard the key ethical principles of existing laws while clarifying areas of confusion and simplifying onerous administrative burdens on small businesses.”
