techUK has published a new paper on data governance which lists six key principles for the UK to “seize post-Brexit opportunities”.

The UK technology trade association released the proposals ahead of the government’s publication of the consultation response, ‘Data: A new direction’.

It said that while data is a foundational part of the UK’s ability to innovate and drive economic growth – having added at least £241 billion in value to the country – techUK members have “cited confusing and unclear rules” which are holding them back from investing further.

The six principles include: improving data access for cutting-edge research and development (R&D); securing strong safeguards for personal data protection and a pro-innovation regulatory environment; setting the UK on the right track to unlock the value of data across the economy and society (non-personal and personal data); strengthening the UK’s cyber resilience to protect UK data infrastructure; enabling the global free flow of data with safeguards; and taking a firm line against data localisation at home and abroad.

“Developing a clearer, more trusted and innovation-enabling data governance system is one of the most obvious opportunities of Brexit,” said Neil Ross, associate director for policy, techUK. “In doing so, the UK must find the right balance between upholding citizens’ rights, allowing data to be reused for research and innovation, while also supporting global data flows.

“By putting forward these principles for reform, techUK believes the UK can strike this balance and unlock the next wave of data driven innovation. However, the Government will need to be bold and embrace these opportunities, otherwise risks only achieving half-hearted changes, and creating extra compliance for UK businesses without seizing any of the benefits for increasing UK R&D and innovation.”

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