Press release: Launch of new data sharing consultation

29 Feb 2016 02:34 PM

The government has launched a consultation into the sharing and use of data in public sector organisations.

The consultation, which will run for 8 weeks, focuses on data held by public sector organisations and will assess how data is accessed and used. It seeks to improve data security across government whilst making citizens’ lives easier.

Find out more about the consultation

The consultation aims to maximise opportunities for effective data sharing and build on areas of good practice. The Cabinet Office and the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) have been working closely together to prevent electoral fraud through the sharing and use of data to confirm legitimacy of applications to vote. The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) have also developed a service, allowing people to view all their driving licence information, such as the amount of penalty points.

It is also possible to share this data with car insurers or hire companies, where you consent for this to happen.

Minister for the Cabinet Office Matt Hancock said:

Data is the fuel for the digital revolution. The very best policies and services are developed around information that’s current, relevant and makes sure you can access government services just as easily as iTunes.

There is huge potential for improving citizens’ lives through data sharing in the UK. The consultation we launch today will help make sure we get data right and bolster security whilst making people’s lives better.

The consultation asks people to consider the proposals and whether they are appropriate. It looks at how government can share data to:

The consultation is the next stage of a year long open policy-making process that the government has been running in collaboration and partnership with civil society organisations.