Data Protection and Digital Information Bill - Motion to re-commit the Bill to Public Bill Committee

The Bill, having been thoroughly scrutinised in Committee, needs to proceed to Report stage. The amendments tabled by the Government are largely technical and important for updating UK data laws effectively. Some address new aspects but do not detract from proper scrutiny.

Expressed concerns over potential red tape from deviation in EU data adequacy standards, requested assurance that there would be no material difference for businesses.

Asked the Minister to confirm that digital identity checks will not be mandatory in certain services.

Inquired about potential amendments related to data availability for researchers, particularly concerning online safety research.

Asked about negotiations on Interpol red notices and their abuse by the Russian state, inquired if pensions are included under scrutiny powers proposed for fraud prevention.

Raised concerns over potential misuse of underground asset data by bad actors, highlighting security risks.

Asked about alignment with Scottish legislation regarding referendums and definitions such as 'permitted participant'.

Sought clarification on the extent of protections for families involved in cases like Breck Bednar's, suggesting further scrutiny is necessary.

Questioned if proposed changes would allow government access to pensioners' bank accounts for fraud detection purposes.

Called for careful restrictions on surveillance powers aimed at preventing state pensions fraud, proposed further discussions in the Lords to refine these provisions.

John Penrose intervened to clarify points regarding Government new clause 27, particularly concerning interface bodies and their applicability to data standards under smart data. He emphasised the importance of ensuring that any standards developed are interoperable across sectors, highlighting the economic benefits of common standards.

Welcomes ICO amendments but criticises technical complexity of digital verification. Supports smart data provisions but calls for a phased approach. Condemns proposed changes to subject access requests, arguing they undermine transparency and privacy rights. Raises concerns about lack of parliamentary scrutiny in high-risk processing and automated decision-making clauses.

Proposes new clause to ensure non-digital verification options are available for identity services. Addresses concerns about data security, privacy issues stemming from government surveillance revealed by Edward Snowden, and the potential exclusion of those who cannot or do not want to use digital methods.

Grady criticises the Government for introducing excessive new rules and regulations in a rush, suggesting it undermines parliamentary sovereignty. He raises concerns about lack of proper scrutiny and meaningful oversight on proposed powers. He mentions specific amendments aiming to remove clauses that may weaken data protection, erode privacy rights, and allow the Home Secretary broad discretion over intelligence services' access to personal data without adequate safeguards or judicial review.

Intervened briefly to echo concerns about proposed sweeping amendments that will require claimants' bank account details to be shared as a matter of course, impacting many people adversely.

Mr. Fysh opposes amendments that would give Ministers extensive powers to recategorise data sharing with third parties, arguing it risks being influenced by powerful tech firms' interests. He suggests existing principles used for Verify online identity service should guide the trust framework's implementation within DVS and warns against broad approaches to direct marketing which can leak personal data. Proposes safeguards around deregistration from verification systems and advocates excluding decentralised zero-knowledge proof systems from potential regulation.

Mr. Timms raises concerns about the broad and intrusive nature of the proposed power, highlighting that it extends beyond traditional fraud investigation powers by allowing inspections without suspicion of fraud. He mentions significant opposition from Citizens Advice and the Child Poverty Action Group regarding privacy rights and the lack of justification for such measures.

Mr. Turner interjected to mention that a production order can already be used in cases of suspected fraud, questioning why new powers are needed without suspicion.

The Data Protection Act imposes excessive administrative burdens on police forces, costing millions annually and tying up valuable resources. New clause 1 would allow the free flow of data between police and CPS before charging decisions are made, saving time and money while maintaining necessary redaction standards post-charge.

The Labour party supports Kate Osborne's amendment 11. Chris Bryant emphasises the importance of retaining checks on police processing of personal data to prevent misconduct, including inappropriate sharing of HIV status.

Mr Penrose emphasised the importance of interoperable data standards and a clear timeline for implementing smart data in various sectors. He cited cross-party support and industry backing, including from key figures in open banking, to argue that this would enable innovation across multiple industries.

Mr Bryant agreed with Mr Penrose, noting that additional steps such as mandating standards for smart metres might be necessary. He highlighted the lack of clear plans provided thus far and expressed hope for more detailed guidance from the Government.

Mr Robin Millar argues that standardised health data empowers patients, strengthens care through better professional decision-making, and enhances devolution. He cites discrepancies in healthcare metrics across UK nations and calls for legislative action to ensure comparable data.

Mr Bryant interjected that the Minister's position would effectively allow for the Information Commissioner to produce a list of high-risk processing activities, which the Government disagreed with.

Mr Timms questioned the necessity of powers to examine bank accounts of state pension claimants for fraud detection, given that current levels of fraud are extremely low.

Asked for silence during the debate to ensure smooth procedures and requested attention from Members, Clerk, and Minister.

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