techUK welcomes Government’s Data Science Ethical Framework publication

Today, techUK attended the launch of the Cabinet Office’s Data Science Ethical Framework which offers guidance to civil servants making policy or operational decisions with data so they have the confidence to innovate through data science.

Launched by Cabinet Office Minister Matt Hancock, the framework recognises the significant opportunities for data science to be used within Government to drive innovation and improved public services and offers six key principles that should be followed:

1) Start with a clear user need and public benefit

2) Use data and tools which have the minimum intrusion necessary

3) Create robust data science models

4) Be alert to public perceptions

5) Be as open and accountable as possible

6) Keep data secure

techUK welcomes the publication of the framework and the clear message delivered today that what is being launched is the first version, or beta, of the framework.

Sue Daley, Head of Cloud, Big Data & Analytics at techUK said “Given the fast pace at which big data, data analytics, machine learning and AI technologies are evolving, techUK welcome the recognition of the need to continue to engage and work with industry, civil society and academic partners to ensure the framework can evolve as the data landscape in the UK develops and matures. techUK stands ready to assist the Government with that aim.