IC Board members named as part of broader data policy planning
The Department for Science, Innovation an Technology (DSIT) has made three data-related announcements today.
The names of the Information Commission’s non-executive directors have been published. Later this year they will take over all the functions formerly held by one individual, as the governance model will now be based on collective responsibility for strategic leadership and decision-making. The varied experience of the new board members does not include data protection law. They will serve for a term of three years.
The recruitment of the new Chair of the Board has begun and the deadline for applications is 19 August. DSIT Secretary of State Liz Kendall said: “The Information Commission must be an organisation that people trust - and trust starts with culture. That means strong leadership, clear values, and a Board that upholds the highest standards of conduct and accountability where staff at all levels are treated with respect and dignity.”
The government recognises data as an asset and a driver of economic growth. Today’s call for evidence is to enable the government to choose a policy direction on the extent it should regulate Artificial Intelligence, online services, privacy and many related services. The announcement summarises the core question as “As these technologies evolve rapidly in scale and complexity, they offer significant benefits, whilst posing new risks and harms.” What is the most appropriate ways to respond in terms of regulation and other policy steps? The call for evidence closes on 9 September.
These announcements are part of a wider consideration of data policy including international data flows and data intermediaries.
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