We are seeking feedback on the draft guidance on the research provisions in the UK GDPR and the DPA 2018.
Data protection law contains a number of provisions for processing personal data for research purposes.
The aim of the guidance is to highlight where in the legislation the various provisions that relate to research can be found, how they fit together and their practical effect. It also provides guidance on the definition of key terms, which will help organisations understand when they can rely on the research provisions.
The guidance is intended to provide more detail and clarity about this complicated area of data protection. It will help those engaged in research to carry out their processing while being compliant with the law. It should give researchers confidence to make use of the provisions where appropriate.
The research provisions are currently under consideration as part of the Government’s stated intent to reform data protection. However, it is important for us to develop guidance on the current legislation to support organisations using personal data for research purposes now. It is crucial that we continue to support stakeholders in this complex area, making compliance with data protection easier. We also believe that the draft guidance addresses some of the issues identified in the data protection reform consultation as being problematic to organisations engaging in research. We will keep any guidance we produce in this area under review to ensure it reflects any future changes.
Please submit responses by 5pm on Friday 22 April 2022. Responses submitted after the deadline may not be considered.