In the King’s Speech this week, the first from a Labour government in 14 years, we heard from new Prime Minister Kier Starmer on what the Government’s top priorities are for the coming term in office.
Over the course of the speech 40 new bills were announced, but there were two pieces of legislation that interested us the most and will have an impact on the cyber security landscape moving forward.
Digital Information and Smart Data Bill
With the previous Government failing to push through the Data Protection and Digital Information Bill (DPDI Bill) during the parliamentary wash up period, there were concerns that certain areas would be lost, specifically around adopting and using digital identities in the UK and strengthening legislation on data protection.
The Digital Information and Smart Data Bill will include three key uses of data, which will be:
Digital Verification Services - more specifically, the supporting of the adoption of secure digital identity products and services,
Developing a National Underground Asset Register which would innovate the way that pipes and cables are installed and maintained
Setting up Smart Data Schemes - the secure sharing of customer’s data upon their request.
Cyber Security and Resilience Bill
The Cyber Security and Resilience Bill will strengthen the UK’s cyber defences to protect critical infrastructure and digital services and ensure they are secure. This Bill brings the UK in line with the EU when it comes to protecting against vulnerabilities, giving regulators extra sway and strengthening reporting requirements to ensure more visibility on threats.
In addition, the Bill will also cover more digital services and supply chains, giving cyber security regulations further remit to ensure cyber security risks are mitigated. This comes as a number of high profile third party breaches have taken out public services and the Bill provides further resources for regulators to proactively investigate vulnerabilities.
We’ll bring further information on what this means for you when the Bills get drafted. In the meantime, we’re pleased to see the proposals to strengthen the UK’s cyber security legislation mapped out.
If you would like any further information or advice on any standards or regulation, you can contact our consulting team here.
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