ORG warns over Government’s plan to pursue lobbyists’ agenda on data rights 

Embargo: Immediate 

Responding to the news of UK Government plans to consult on changes to key data protection safeguards in the name of innovation, the Executive Director of the Open Rights Group, Jim Killock, said: 

“The Government’s proposal would make it easier for companies to use and abuse your health data, and easier for Government to run so-called ‘mutant algorithms’ to decide your future.

“They are inviting thousands of health, insurance, and advertising lobbyists to rip up your rights in the name of innovation. 

“And to top it all they want to stitch up the way the Commissioner of the ICO is appointed in future so they can keep it controlled by Conservative-friendly industry executives.” 

ENDS 

Contact 

Press 07951265812 / press@openrightsgroup.org  

Notes to the Editor

UK Government’s press release about the plan: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/uk-launches-data-reform-to-boost-innovation-economic-growth-and-protect-the-public