Hello – and welcome to the August newsletter.

I’ve spent much of my summer so far engaging with leaders across Parliament, government and industry. These conversations have spanned topics from artificial intelligence to organisational transformation, but they’ve all centred on a shared ambition and desire to ensure that the public sector innovation is built with privacy and data protection in mind. And that our work enables businesses to maximise their legitimate and responsible use of personal data

I’ve heard this in my meetings at DSIT alongside our newly appointed CEO, Paul Arnold. Together we met with Secretary of State Peter Kyle MP to reflect on the ICO’s next chapter following the passage of the Data Use and Access Act. And in my discussions on our AI strategy with Lord Ranger, a key voice in the AI debate and through conversations exploring the future of biometrics and policing with Sir Brian Leveson.  

What’s become increasingly clear through these exchanges is that personal data is no longer a side note in policy; it’s at the heart of the society we live in. From AI in policing, to digital transformation of public services, the use of personal information brings opportunities, innovation and real public benefits. But as those of us in the data protection community know all too well, that benefit comes with responsibility. When people entrust us with their data, we must ensure it is used responsibly and safeguarded at every step.

That principle was brought into sharp focus last month with the public announcement of the Ministry of Defence breach. It served as a stark reminder of both what’s at stake when personal data is mishandled and the important role that the ICO has as the regulator.

People rightly look to us to uphold and protect their information rights. And when things go wrong, they expect us to explain not only what happened but show how we’re working with organisations to help improve things. Our latest disclosing documents guidance is a step towards that. It includes practical steps and how-to videos to help organisations understand how to check documents for hidden personal information and reduce the risk of a data breach. We’re engaging with key stakeholders to make sure this advice is in front of those who need it. And we’re committed to help organisations get this right and ensure that a culture of privacy and data protection runs through all innovation.