No sign of AI bill, but there was a nod to digital in the King's Speech
TODAY'S State Opening of Parliament did not announce specific bills for data protection and artificial intelligence - in fact it downright ignored AI altogether.
It did, however, introduce two critical pieces of legislation: the Cyber Security & Resilience Bill and the Digital Information & Smart Data Bill.
Here's what they're about...
The Cyber Security & Resilience Bill
The thinking behind this piece of legislation is about enhancing the nation's digital defences by:
1. Expanding regulatory powers compels more businesses to improve cybersecurity measures.
2. Broadening the scope of existing regulations.
3. Strengthening regulators' authority.
4. Increasing reporting requirements for businesses to assess better cyber threats facing the UK.
The Digital Information & Smart Data Bill
This is an interesting one as it not only picks up the discarded baton of the Data Protection & Digital Information Bill, it also focuses on harnessing data to stimulate economic growth through:
1. Enabling innovative data applications.
2. Establishing digital verification services, including digital identity products for secure information sharing.
3. Creating "smart data" schemes allows secure customer data sharing with authorized third parties upon request.
4. Modernising and strengthening the Information Commissioner's Office.
5. Facilitating better data utilisation for scientists and researchers.
This particular legislation brings in elements of the previously abandoned Data Protection & Digital Information Bill. However, it's unclear whether it addresses the Direct Marketing Association's (DMA) 10-point wish list, which included maintaining high data protection standards, providing certainty for legitimate interests in data processing, taking an ethical approach to AI regulation, clarifying GDPR interpretations, and preserving adequacy with EU regulations.
DMA chief executive Chris Combemale supported the Government's growth-focused approach, particularly welcoming the Digital Information & Smart Data Bill. The DMA pledged to collaborate with the Government to ensure crucial data protection reforms are incorporated into the new legislation.
Combemale also advocated for an AI Bill to enshrine an ethical, principles-based approach to artificial intelligence.
The association emphasised the importance of responsible data and AI in driving private sector growth, advancing scientific and medical research, and improving public services. It also stressed the need for a balanced approach that enables free-flowing data and a reduction in administrative burdens while safeguarding privacy.
The CEO highlighted the critical balance between innovation and privacy, noting its importance in building trust in future products, services, and medicines. He further suggested combining the Digital Information & Smart Data Bill and a potential AI Bill would empower businesses and charities to engage with customers and donors more effectively while maintaining responsible practices that foster trust.
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