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Information Commissioner’s Office: Relocation
16 July 2025
Lead MP
Esther McVey
Tatton
Con
Responding Minister
Chris Bryant
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Word Count: 4277
Other Contributors: 2
At a Glance
Esther McVey raised concerns about information commissioner’s office: relocation in Westminster Hall. A government minister responded.
Key Requests to Government:
Residents want assurances that the relocation decision was thoroughly considered with a full assessment of its impacts, including consultations with local businesses and employees. They also seek information on staff remaining in Wilmslow post-relocation and cost implications.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
The Information Commissioner’s Office is relocating from Wilmslow to Manchester in autumn 2026, affecting over 800 jobs and the local economy. There was no consultation or explanation provided for this decision, raising questions about accountability and impact assessment.
Chris Bryant
Lab
Rhondda
The hon. Member responded to the right hon. Lady's concerns by stating that the ICO has conducted thorough economic analysis and consultations, which showed that relocating to Manchester would provide better access to talent pipelines, technological skills, and diverse workforce demographics.
Jim Shannon
DUP
Strangford
Concerned about the lack of consultation regarding the impact on local economy and community from the relocation of the Information Commissioner’s Office.
Government Response
Chris Bryant
The Minister for Data Protection and Telecoms
Government Response
The Minister stated that a statutory instrument was laid to change the ICO's funding arrangements due to increased workload from more freedom of information requests. He defended the process as necessary rather than secretive, noting previous parliamentary debates on similar matters where the MP did not participate.
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About Westminster Hall Debates
Westminster Hall debates are a chance for MPs to raise important issues affecting their constituents and get a response from a government minister. Unlike Prime Minister's Questions, these debates are more in-depth and collaborative. The MP who secured the debate speaks first, other MPs can contribute, and a minister responds with the government's position.