The UK’s sweeping Data (Use and Access) Bill returns to the House of Lords today for further scrutiny, sparking heated debate over the future of digital governance, AI regulation, and data transparency. The legislation, introduced earlier this year, is a cornerstone of the government’s strategy to position Britain as a global leader in responsible data innovation.
Peers are expected to examine key definitions in the bill particularly how it treats artificial intelligence (AI) and the rights of individuals over their personal information.
“This is about ensuring innovation does not outpace accountability,” said Baroness Joanna Shields, a crossbench peer and former tech executive. “We must set clear boundaries for how data is used, especially when AI systems are involved.”
Key Provisions Under Debate
The bill proposes:
- Creating a unified legal framework for public and private data sharing
- Facilitating research access to government datasets
- Establishing clear rules for algorithmic transparency and AI decision-making
- Mandating impact assessments for large-scale data projects
Supporters argue that the legislation will unlock economic potential, attract tech investment, and streamline the UK’s fragmented data laws. The government claims it will help build a “secure, dynamic data economy.”
However, digital rights groups and some legal experts are raising red flags.
“Loopholes in the current draft could allow opaque AI surveillance and weaken user consent,” warned the Open Rights Group in a statement ahead of the Lords session.
Political Landscape
The bill passed the House of Commons in April with cross-party support, though not without opposition amendments demanding stricter AI guardrails. Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s government has framed the bill as vital to its post-Brexit tech agenda, ensuring the UK maintains sovereignty over data rules while staying interoperable with global standards.
The House of Lords debate today focuses on several proposed revisions, including:
- Clarifying what constitutes “automated decision-making”
- Ensuring public sector AI deployments are open to audit
- Enshrining stronger individual rights over personal data shared across agencies
Energy Law Takes Effect
In parallel, the government also announced that the Great British Energy Act 2025 has now received Royal Assent. This landmark law creates a publicly owned energy company, tasked with accelerating investment in renewable power and ensuring energy security.
The move marks a key victory for Labour’s green agenda and signals a major shift away from privatized energy models that have dominated UK policy for decades.
