The European Union has ruled that British data protection standards are “adequate”, which means that digital information will continue to flow between the UK and the EU. Its “adequate” status will be retained for four years, but this could be removed at any time if EU citizens are no longer offered protection over how their data is used.
The UK, which now operates a fully independent data policy, has already recognised the EU and EEA member states’ GDPR as ‘adequate’.
The free flow of personal data helps trade, innovation and investment; assists with tackling crime, and supports health and scientific research.
The government said it also plans to promote the free flow of personal data globally, and through new data adequacy agreements, while ensuring people’s data continues to be protected to a high standard.
John Foster CBI Director of Policy said:
“This breakthrough in the EU-UK adequacy decision will be welcomed by businesses across the country.
“The free flow of data is the bedrock of the modern economy and essential for firms across all sectors– from automotive to logistics – playing an important role in everyday trade of goods and services.
“This positive step will help us move forward as we develop a new trading relationship with the EU.”
Julian David techUK CEO added:
“The UK must also now move to complete the development of its own international data transfer regime in order to allow companies in the UK not just to exchange data with the EU, but also to be able to access opportunities across the world.”
B P Collins Partner, Alex Zachary, commented:
“This will be a relief to UK businesses who receive personal data from the EU and who, but for this decision, would have been required to put in place additional safeguards to meet EU data protection rules. This decision now means that the flows of data between the EU and the UK can continue on essentially the same basis as before Brexit.”
The team at B P Collins is very experienced in advising on data protection rules and how they affect UK businesses. For help on data protection or other business matters, please contact Alex Zachary at alex.zachary@bpcollins.co.uk, or call 01753 889995.
