King’s Speech introduces smart data and cybersecurity bills and promises AI legislation

The State Opening of Parliament took place yesterday on 17 July 2024, where the new British government unveiled its legislative agenda in the King’s Speech. 

Contrary to expectations, an AI bill was not announced. Instead, King Charles outlined the government’s plan to ‘establish the appropriate legislation to place requirements on those working to develop the most powerful artificial intelligenceThe use of computer systems to perform tasks normally requiring human intelligence, such as decision-making, speech recognition, translation etc. models.’ 

David Smith, DPO and AI Sector Lead at The DPO Centre said:

‘AI holds tremendous potential for economic growth and human advancement, yet it carries significant risks. We’re pleased the new government recognises this and is aligning with other nations in thoughtfully addressing how we can deploy the technologies safely and effectively. We look forward to the draft AI legislation, as promised in the King’s Speech.’ 

New bills announced

A new Cyber Security and Resilience Bill was announced, which aims to give greater power to regulators to ensure more organisations implement better cybersecurity measures.  

The Digital Information and Smart Data (DISD) Bill was also introduced, proposing new and innovative uses of data to help boost the economy. Under this new proposed legislation, a digital verification service would be established, which would include digital identity products to help the public quickly and securely share their data. 

Shane Gohil, DPO and Tech & Security Sector Lead at The DPO Centre had this to add regarding these new bills: 

‘The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill seems to acknowledge the EU’s progress in this area, potentially introducing robust measures that reflect the high standards currently being established by NIS2.
‘And similarly with the Digital Information and Smart Data Bill, the UK’s approach seems to mirror the EU’s Digital Identity and EU Digital Identity Wallet (EUDI).’

Regarding the DISD Bill, the background briefing notes accompanying the King’s Speech indicate the government plans to modernise and strengthen the Information Commissioner’s OfficeThe United Kingdom’s independent ‘supervisory authority’ for ensuring compliance with the UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations etc. (ICOThe United Kingdom’s independent supervisory authority for ensuring compliance with the UK GDPR, Data Protection Act 2018, the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations etc.) with a new structure, featuring a CEO, board and chair, along with targeted data law reforms. 

However, specific information regarding the proposed DISD Bill is currently limited and we await further details for a comprehensive understanding. 

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