On 18 July 2022 the Government introduced the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill following the public consultation it carried out last year. The Bill’s long title describes it as making provision for the regulation of the processing of information relating to identified or identifiable living individuals, as well as about services consisting of the use of information to ascertain and verify facts about individuals. It also covers access to customer and business data, and makes provision for privacy and electronic communications.

In addition, it covers electronic signatures, electronic seals and other trust services, the disclosure of information to improve public service delivery, and the implementation of agreements on sharing information for law enforcement purposes.

The Bill also establishes the Information Commission and makes provision about the oversight of biometric data and for connected purposes.

The Bill is due to undergo its second reading in the House of Commons on 5 September 2022. To access the Bill, click here.