Following the Queens Speech delivered on 10 May 2022 setting out the Governments legislative plans, there are proposals that “the United Kingdom`s Data Protection regime will be reformed” under a new Data Reform Bill and Bill of Rights.
The purpose of the Data Reform Bill is to:
• Create a world class data rights regime that will reduce burdens on businesses, boosts the economy, helps scientists to innovate and improves the lives of people in the UK.
• Modernise the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO), ensuring it has the capabilities and powers to take stronger action against organisations who breach data protection laws. The ICO will be more accountable to Parliament and the public.
• Increase industry participation in Smart Data Schemes, which will give individual and small businesses more control of their data.
• Ensuring that the regulator takes appropriate action against organisation`s who breach data rights and citizens have greater clarity on their rights.
Under the Data Reform Bill, it has particular emphasis on that personal data is protected to a Gold Standard.
Does your business have the necessary documentation to satisfy the Gold Standard which will be required?
Did you know that the Information Commissioner fined 67 companies in 2021 and issued 34 enforcement notices. These are not all Public bodies but mainly SME. One Company was fined £40,000 for sending out Marketing emails without having the necessary lawful consent.
If you are a Chamber Member you can call the free legal advice service that comes with your membership to check out the basics. If you require a full GDPR Audit check contact Jayne Egginton by emailing jegginton@vantagelegalprotect.com or calling us on 01455 852 070 / 07766 253 606