UK’s Data Protection Bill sparks controversy

Critics are voicing strong opposition to the UK’s proposed Data Protection and Digital Information Bill (DPDI), particularly its provisions regarding bank account monitoring for benefit recipients and changes to biometric data oversight. A cross-party group of parliamentarians has raised concerns over a proposal to grant the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) access to individuals’ bank accounts, arguing that such powers could lead to wrongful benefits suspension and intrusive scrutiny.

The DPDI, currently under scrutiny in the House of Lords, faces criticism from various quarters. Last month, the Information Commissioner and numerous charities and campaign organisations criticised the bill for its lack of clarity on data collection and processing safeguards. The controversial provision to monitor benefit seekers’ bank accounts has drawn particular ire, with concerns raised about the scope and potential consequences of such surveillance.

In addition to scrutinising bank account monitoring, the DPDI also seeks to alter the oversight of biometric identification and surveillance technologies. This move has been criticised by former biometrics commissioners, civil society organisations, and the Equality and Human Rights Commission, who warn of significant gaps in existing surveillance oversight. Furthermore, concerns have been raised about the DPDI’s implications for data-sharing agreements between the UK and the European Union, with the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties, Justice, and Home Affairs Committee cautioning that it could jeopardise data-sharing adequacy agreements.