Minister calls on SMES to make data preparations ahead of EU exit
Digital Minister Margot James has issued a reminder to SMES to ensure that they’ve got plans in place so that they don’t lose access to vital data flows if the UK leaves the EU without a deal.
Recent research from Yougov has revealed that 26% of SMES currently receive and store personal data from people within the EEA. It also identified a number of sectors that said data from the EEA is essential to core or secondary functions within their business’ model.
The top sectors included IT and Telecoms (43%), Manufacturing (26%) and Finance and Accounting (25%). Guidance already exists for SMES to understand how they can prepare and the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) has produced a six step strategy for companies to follow. Digital Minister Margot James said:
“I know that personal data plays a hugely important role in day to day business. The current uncertainty around Brexit is of great concern and businesses need to take action to limit the risk of potential disruption if no deal were to happen. I would urge all companies to check the Information Commissioner’s Office guidance on their website, and make sure that they are as prepared as possible.”
The Government has already introduced robust new data laws through the 2018 Data Protection Act. This included giving people more power and control over their data and strengthening the powers of the ICO. In the event of a deal, through the Withdrawal Agreement, the government has made plans to secure what is known as a ‘data adequacy decision’ from the EU. This will ensure UK and EU firms can carry on exchanging personal data like they do now.
■ For more information you can call the ICO helpline on 0303 123 1113.