HomeInsightsUK Government response to the Court of Justice of the European Union’s decision in the Schrems II case

The UK Government says that it is reviewing the details of the judgment and it remains committed to supporting UK organisations on international data transfers. The Government says that international data transfers are “vitally important to global economies and societies” and it looks forward to “developing and supporting mechanisms that can best facilitate international data transfers”.

According to the Government, Covid-19 has demonstrated the importance of international data transfers. The recent crisis has shown how data transfers keep economies moving and societies functioning, being crucial to working from home, supporting a marked shift to communications and commerce moving online and underpinning the healthcare response.

The Government says that it is “disappointed” at the CJEU’s decision that the EU-US Privacy Shield is invalid. The Government had intervened in the case, arguing in support of the validity of standard contractual clauses (SCCs). It is “pleased that this important mechanism for transferring data internationally remains in place and is considering any further implications that may arise from the judgment in respect of this”.

The Government says that it is working with the Information Commissioner’s Office and international counterparts to address the impacts of the judgment and to ensure that updated guidance on international data transfers will be available as soon as possible. To read the Government’s statement in full, click here.

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