ICO announces new statutory code to regulate AI in public and private sector

The Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) is set to introduce a statutory code of practice for public and private sector organisations on developing and deploying artificial intelligence (AI).

The news comes in response to HM Treasury's announcement yesterday detailing plans to overhaul the regulatory system and cut "costly red tape" in order to boost economic growth.

Information Commissioner John Edwards met with Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves yesterday (17 March) to agree the regulator’s commitments, which also includes launching free training for small businesses, and reforms to online advertising rules.

The proposed statutory code of practice for those developing or using AI products will establish a clear set of rules for the public and private sector and aims to strengthen the UK’s position as a global AI leader, the ICO said.

A press statement detailing the plans said: "The ICO will introduce simpler guidance for businesses developing or deploying AI, ensuring clarity of what the data protection law.

"This will enable organisations to unleash the opportunities of this technology while still safeguarding people’s personal data."

It added that the new framework will guide AI adoption in both private and public sectors, "fostering technological advancement and public trust".

Adam Carey