This week saw the conclusion of the Public Bill Committee for the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill – where I scrutinised the Govts plans in detail. Overall, in the midst of a tech revolution, this Bill remains a missed opportunity to harness data for the public good.

Though there are elements I was pleased to welcome – such as the provisions to allow for the creation of further smart data regimes – I also highlighted my concern with the changes it makes to fundamental data protection principles like Subject Access Requests and DPIAs.

The Bill also still fails to futureproof workers rights in the digital age, with the Govt voting down every amendment Labour put forward to bolster protections. Further, our amendments to ensure the independence of the ICO and place safeguards on minister’s powers were rejected.x

As the use of data rapidly grows, the idea of unlocking its potential whilst boosting data rights is a vital one. But on the whole, this Bill does not seize the moment, or attempt to make data work for the public good. I look forward to scrutinising it further at report stage.