In conversation with John Edwards, Information Commissioner

The Institute for Government was delighted to welcome John Edwards, the UK Information Commissioner. He was in conversation with the Institute’s Director of Research Emma Norris. Proper use of public data is key for maintaining trust in public bodies, as well as ensuring that government services run well. As the UK's independent data protection watchdog, the ICO is at the heart of discussions over data use and how to find the balance between privacy and transparency. So what steps can be taken to improve government transparency over data? Is it time to reassess how the UK’s Freedom of Information laws work? What will be the impact of the Online Safety Bill – and what changes will the government be introducing to this much talked about piece of legislation? John Edwards discussed his strategic priorities as Information Commissioner, the challenges faced by the ICO, and ICO25, the ICO’s new strategic plan. John Edwards was appointed as the UK’s sixth Information Commissioner last December, and began his role at the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) in January. He previously spent eight years as New Zealand Privacy Commissioner.