On 12 January 2024, the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) and the Centre for Data Ethics and Innovation (CDEI) announced that they had signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The MoU establishes a framework for cooperation and information sharing between the parties on matters relating to artificial intelligence (AI) and digital policy issues where the parties’ remits and interests intersect.

The ICO is the UK’s independent regulator responsible for data protection and information rights law. The CDEI is a UK government body that focuses on addressing ethical and societal issues related to the use of AI and data-driven technologies.

The recently signed MoU sets out a framework for collaboration between the bodies as well as outlining the guiding principles they will follow while working together. 

The parties recognise a shared interest in promoting technological innovation for the public good, they also commit to transparent and ethical information sharing.

The parties intend to share information with each other, where they consider that such information sharing will help the other to effectively fulfil their respective functions.

Timely exchange of relevant information is encouraged, and the ICO may offer regulatory advice in the context of CDEI's outputs.

The MoU will be reviewed every two years.

This article was written by Nathan Gevao and Liz Smith. 

If you have any questions or would otherwise like to discuss any of the issues raised in this article, please contact David Varney, Tom Whittaker, or another member of our Technology Team.